Discover Matakana summer events for 2026/27, from Christmas getaways to music festivals, beaches and country escapes.
Summer is almost here, and if you're looking for an excuse to get out of Auckland for a few days, Matakana is a pretty good place to start.
Just north of the city, the Matakana Coast has everything you need for a summer break: beautiful beaches, vineyards, good food and plenty of places to explore.
And over December and January, there's even more happening, with Christmas celebrations, outdoor music festivals and events to look forward to.
Whether you're planning a festive getaway or simply want to spend a few days in the countryside, here's what's coming up around Matakana and Warkworth.
Christmas in the Country at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge
If the thought of cooking Christmas lunch, washing dishes and organising everything doesn't sound particularly relaxing, how about doing something different this year?
Woodhouse Mountain Lodge is bringing back its Christmas in the Country experience from 24–26 December 2026.
The two-night package is designed for guests who would rather spend Christmas enjoying themselves than worrying about all the preparation.
You'll arrive on Christmas Eve to a platter and bubbles in your villa, followed by a three-course dinner at the lodge.
On Christmas Day, there's breakfast, time to enjoy the pool, hot tub or sauna, and a Christmas-themed cocktail hour before a family-style lunch.
With the cooking taken care of, you can spend more time together and actually enjoy the day.
The package starts from $699 per person, subject to terms and availability. There's also an option to extend your stay for a third night at a special additional rate.
Hidden Valley Festival Returns to Matakana
Hidden Valley Festival
If live music is more your thing, Hidden Valley Festival returns to Matakana Country Park on Sunday 27 December 2026.
Now in its 11th year, Hidden Valley has become one of the region's biggest summer music events, attracting thousands of visitors for a day of electronic music in the open air.
Set among the rolling hills near Matakana, it's a lively way to spend one of those days between Christmas and New Year when nobody is quite sure what day of the week it is.
Matakanarama: Three Days of New Year's Celebrations
Matakanarama
The music continues with Matakanarama, taking place from 29–31 December 2026.
This three-day festival brings together DJs, live performances and New Year's celebrations in the Matakana countryside.
It's particularly popular with visitors wanting to spend several days in the area rather than heading home after one night.
Tickets are available for different festival days, with camping and transport options also offered.
A Peaceful Place to Stay Near Matakana
While Matakana's summer events bring plenty of energy to the region, it's nice to have somewhere peaceful to return to at the end of the day.
Set on 100 acres of countryside near Warkworth, Woodhouse Mountain Lodge offers 18 private villas with views across the surrounding landscape towards the Hauraki Gulf.
Guests can enjoy dining at the lodge, relax by the pool or make use of the hot tub, sauna and tennis court.
It's an inviting place to spend a few days away, whether you're visiting for a special occasion or simply taking some time out.
