Katikati Avo Fest
Presented by: Katch Katikati
The highlight of the local summer calendar is back. Katikati Avo Fest will take over the Uretara Domain on Saturday, 10 January 2026, from 12pm to 6pm, serving up a celebration of New Zealand’s Avocado Capital with live music, delicious food and beverages, and sun-soaked good times!
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 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. The Lady Killers – Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch, and Jackie Clarke – then 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.
Then headline act Tami Neilson takes to the DMS Main Stage! Tami is a powerhouse singer-songwriter who went from busking with her family in Canada to becoming one of Aotearoa’s most decorated artists. After duetting with Willie Nelson, hitting #1 with KINGMAKER, and selling out orchestral shows with the Auckland Philharmonia, she’s since debuted at the Grand Ole Opry, released Neilson Sings Nelson, and dropped the acclaimed 2025 album Neon Cowgirl—plus US tour supports with Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan. Expect a roof-raising blend of country, soul, and rock ’n’ roll from a “fire-breathing belter” (Rolling Stone) who leaves crowds grinning and goose-bumped.
Our celebrity chef, Chelsea Winter, is one of New Zealand’s best-loved food personalities, bestselling author, and an engaging live presenter known for her relaxed, down-to-earth style. Chelsea will host hourly cooking demonstrations in the Seeka Kitchen Marquee at Katikati Avo Fest. Across the afternoon, festival-goers can expect a line-up of approachable, flavour-packed dishes, including: Flatbreads with Avo & Whipped Feta; Vietnamese-Style Poached Chicken & Avocado Salad; Hot Smoked Salmon & Avocado Cups; and Decadent Orange-Choc Mousse.
Chelsea will also host a book signing at 5pm in the Seeka Kitchen Marquee, with Nourish available for purchase from Katikati Paper Plus on the day. Fans are welcome to bring along any of her books to be signed.
Early Bird and Premium Tickets SOLD OUT. General Tickets now on sale.
Limited Early Bird Tickets on sale now!
