Earlybird tickets are now on sale, acts have been released and the festival has a name change. Yes, arrangements are pushing forward for the Katikati Avo Fest 2026!

Katch Katikati general manager Jacqui Knight said the team behind the festival had rebranded it the Katikati Avo Fest, dropping the “food and wine” component of the name for a few reasons.

“One, it’s known as the Avo Fest anyway. Two, we want to focus more on the main stage entertainment and the kitchen tent,” said Knight, who said last year’s festival was a sell-out at the maximum 4400 capacity, and the 60-odd vendors.

Katch Katikati events manager Kylie Watkins said Katikati Avo Fest 2026 will take place on January 10 at Uretara Domain, with big tunes, fresh flavours, and pure summer fun.

“Earlybird tickets are now on sale and the main act will be announced on October 7.”

Watkins said the festival will run from 12pm to 6pm on January 10, serving up a celebration of New Zealand’s Avocado Capital with live music, delicious food and beverages, and sun-soaked good times.

Sonar Flare, a high-voltage supergroup led by Jason Kerrison and featuring platinum artists from The Feelers, Opshop, Zed, and Sola Rosa, will perform. Photo / Supplied

“Since 2004, Katikati Avo Fest has drawn crowds from across the Bay of Plenty and beyond for its relaxed atmosphere, dance-ready bands, on-the-hour cooking demonstrations, and an irresistible line-up of avocado-inspired food and beverages.

“The 2026 music line-up announced so far opens with Wellington favourites The Relatives, serving up sing-along hits from yesteryear through to modern rock anthems guaranteed to get the crowd moving.

“They’re followed by Sonar Flare, a high-voltage supergroup led by Jason Kerrison and featuring platinum artists from The Feelers, Opshop, Zed, and Sola Rosa -expect arena-sized energy and massive musicianship.

“Then, the Lady Killers – Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch, and Jackie Clarke – will take the spotlight with a dazzling harmony masterclass that glides from gospel to rock ‘n’ roll, delivering pin-drop moments, big laughs, and feel-good thrills.”

The celebrity chef who will conjure avo-forward dishes on the hour in the kitchen marquee would also be announced soon, said Watkins.

“With great music, delicious food, and plenty of fun to be had, Katikati Avo Fest is the place to be. Everyone leaves with a smile – it’s the ultimate summer experience!”

The Lady Killers, featuring Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch, and Jackie Clarke, will also wow crowds at the 2026 Katikati Avo Fest. Photo / Supplied

Katikati Fun Fest Charitable Trust, kaitiaki (guardians) of Katikati Avo Fest, chair Trevor Burgess said the festival was the result of thousands of volunteer hours, tireless community spirit “and a passion for giving back”.

“Each year, it’s a chance to celebrate our region, share good kai and music, and support local causes, while shining a light on Katikati’s world-famous avocados.”

Early Bird tickets are available to purchase at: www.KatikatiAvoFest.co.nz. Limited allocations are expected to sell out quickly.