Cool Little Town

Hunt for the Wilderpeople - 10 Year Anniversary Party
2026-03-31 18:00 - 20:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople will return to Hokitika for it’s 10th anniversary of its original release. Anniversary screenings across Aotearoa will be a communal experience to celebrate this modern Aotearoa classic with the film being shown in a 4K version, starting with a nationwide celebration on Tuesday 31 March.
A decade on from its 2016 release, Hunt for the Wilderpeople remains New Zealand’s highest-grossing local film at the box office and holds a place in the country’s cultural identity.

The One - Book Launch Event - Hokitika Regent
2026-03-31 19:00 - 21:00 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
An Evening with Samantha Beneke Green Room, Hokitika Regent TheatreTuesday 31 March7:00pmFree entry
After three books, countless late nights, and a world built in shadows…
It all comes down to this.
Join local author Samantha Beneke for the launch of The One, the final book in the Captive Hearts trilogy. A dark, emotionally charged vampire romance series that began with The Pet.
This intimate evening in the Green Room will include:
A live reading from the final book A behind-the-scenes look at how the trilogy came to life Q&A with the author Signed copies available on the night Trilogy bundle specials
Whether you’ve followed Kate and Alexander from the beginning, or you’re brand new to the series, this is your invitation into a world where love is dangerous, loyalty is tested, and immortality comes at a cost.
Book One will be FREE on Kindle on launch day, the perfect time to begin.
Come celebrate the final chapter of the Captive Hearts trilogy with friends, readers, and the Hokitika community.
Seats are limited, RSVP to secure your spot.

The Wild West Backyard Ultra
2026-04-04 | Hokitika Beach, Beach Street, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
Come and experience New Zealand’s most scenic Backyard Ultra, running between the ocean and the mountains, on the wild West Coast
Saturday, April 4th, 2026 (Easter Weekend)
Start time: 9:00 AM
Location: Hokitika Beachfront

A unique Backyard Ultra between the Tasman sea and the Southern Alps.

1 loop 6.7km on the hour, every hour. Run till you drop.

Last runner standing.

Friendly, grassroots, and stunningly scenic.

Capped at 150 runners.

This event is affiliated and performances can count toward national teams / world championships.

Entries open Monday December 1st 2025
Entries close Sunday 22nd March 2026

Pricing from 1 December – $150

Pricing from 1 March – $200

$1,000 Course Record Prizes 🏆

We’re excited to announce $1,000 cash prizes for both the Female and Male course records (only the last Female and Male standing) at the Wild West Backyard Ultra.
If you break the course record, you’ll take home $1,000 cash. This means, yes, the course records have to go in 2026!
This prize is about celebrating exceptional endurance, grit, and pushing limits on our iconic Hokitika Beachfront course. Whether you’re racing for the win, chasing a personal best, or testing how far you can go, the course records are officially on the line.
Think you’ve got what it takes?

This event is an affiliated backyard ultra and performances can count toward the NZ Team selection for Big’s Backyard Ultra
The course consists of a small out and back followed by a longer loop. The course starts at the Hokitika beachfront, towards the tip. The course is flat and fast, with a total of 10 – 12 meters of elevation per loop!

Easter Pairs Stableford Tournament - Hokitika Golf Club
2026-04-04 - 2026-04-05 | Hokitika Golf Club, 206 Golf Links Road, Hokitika
Easter Pairs Stableford TournamentJoin us for the annual Easter Tournament at Mahinapua Links.Limited to the first 54 pairs of men, ladies or mixed pairsSaturday 4BBB Stableford, Sunday individual Stableford.$90 per player, great prizesEmail entry to Simon at hokitikagolf@xtra.co.nz

Easter Fun at the Westland Industrial Heritage Park
2026-04-04 - 2026-04-05 | Westland Industrial Heritage Park, 9 Brian Waugh Lane, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Join the fun at the Westland Industrial Heritage Park this Easter with an Easter Egg Hunt along with train rides and a BBQ!
The park will be open Easter Friday, Saturday and Sunday for gold coin entry with the Easter Egg Hunt and Trains now happening on Monday. There will be trains visiting from Christchurch too!
Normal hours resume for the school holidays with the park open on Wednesdays and Saturdays every week.

Jody Direen - Lake Mahinapua Hotel
2026-04-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Lake Mahinapua Hotel, 962 Ruatapu Road, Hokitika, Westland, 7883, New Zealand
Jody Direen returns to the garden at Lake Mahinapua Hotel for a special single release party celebrating her new track, West Coast.
Known for her dynamic stage presence and cinematic country-pop sound, Jody brings her full band to Mahinapua for a night of high-energy songs, big hooks and stories shaped by land, lineage and the wild edge of the Coast.
Set beneath the trees in The Garden (weather permitting), this is an upbeat autumn show — dance under the stars or kick back with your favourite tipple and enjoy the atmosphere.
Venue:
The Garden at Lake Mahinapua Hotel (weather dependent). If the weather turns, the show will move indoors.
Getting there:
A courtesy coach is available (first in, first served — book via info@mahinapuahotel.nz).
If the coach fills, please book Hokitika Taxis on 03 755 5075, or make a night of it and stay onsite. Alternatively, book a room for the night!
Don’t miss this chance to see one of Australasia’s most vibrant country stars live. Mark your calendars, buy your tickets, gather your friends and get ready for a night of incredible music!
Date & Time: April 04, 2026, at 7 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM—book a table for dinner!)
R18

Lego - Build a Pirate Scene
2026-04-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Westland District Library
Lego – Build a Pirate Scene
No registration – everyone’s welcome
Children under 8yrs old must be supervised by a caregiver at all times

Nadav David: Cosmic Unity
2026-04-07 19:00 - 21:00 | The Old Lodge Theatre, 11 Revell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
7 April 26 | Old Lodge Hokitika | ES MI CAMINO — Music, Stories, and Medicine from the Jungle | 7pm
An intimate evening of live music and storytelling with Nadav (COSMIC UNITY), sharing songs from the album ES MI CAMINO, recorded in Peru with musicians from around the world.
Through guitar, voice, and story, Nadav weaves experiences from his time living and working with indigenous communities and plant-medicine traditions in the Amazon. This is an invitation to listen, feel, and journey together through sound and spirit.
Tickets
Early Bird — $25
General Admission — $30
You are warmly invited to come as you are, slow down, and enter a shared musical space of connection, reflection, and presence.

Design an Authentic Treasure Map
2026-04-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Westland District Library
Design an Authentic Treasure Map
No registration – everyone’s welcome
Children under 8yrs old must be supervised by a caregiver at all times

Ocean Film Festival - Hokitika Regent Theatre
2026-04-09 19:00 - 21:30 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
The 13th annual Ocean Film Festival World Tour returns to Aotearoa this April with six inspiring films celebrating ocean adventure, conservation and surf culture. Highlights include The Raftsmen, chronicling a record-breaking raft journey across the world’s largest ocean; The Kelp Collector, an intimate Australian short about marine preservation; and Antarctica: Domain One, narrated by surfing legend Kelly Slater. The family-friendly 2026 tour promises breathtaking cinematography and powerful stories that connect audiences to the beauty and vulnerability of the sea.

Family Karaoke Disco
2026-04-11 13:00 - 18:00 | Grey Power Hokitika, Cnr Stafford and Revell Street, Hokitika
Get Ready to Shine – Family Karaoke Disco!
Looking for something fun to do with the whānau? Come along to a Family Karaoke Disco in Hokitika!
Join us for an afternoon filled with music, laughter, dancing, and karaoke. Whether you love singing your heart out or just want to enjoy the vibes, everyone is welcome.
All ages welcome Light refreshments provided Family-friendly fun for the whole community
Saturday, 11 April 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM Greypower Community Hall, Hokitika
Tickets on the door:• $10 Family Pass• $5 Single
A portion of ticket sales will go towards supporting the Greypower Community Hall
For more information: 022 385 1506
Bring your friends, bring your whānau, and come along for a great afternoon of music, karaoke, and dancing!

At Grey Power Rooms, cnr Stafford and Revell Streets Hokitika.

Mr Fungus - Hokitika Regent Theatre
2026-04-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
“New Zealand’s Loudest Mime” Mr Fungus is on tour across Aotearoa, with silly show that will amuse and delight kids of all ages. Featuring visual and verbal comedy, juggling and mime, with scrumptious and catchy backing soundtracks, Mr Fungus will bring the silliness and fun to your town. Thrillingly ridiculous and a seasoned pro, Mr Fungus has played to packed theatres and festival venues throughout Europe and Australisia, in a career spanning four decades.

Crochet a Pirate Eye Patch with Marj
2026-04-15 10:30 - 11:30 | Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Westland District Library
Crochet a Pirate Eye Patch with Marj
No registration, everyone’s welcome
Children under 8yrs old must be supervised by a caregiver at all times

Pirate Escape Game - Captain on the Loose
2026-04-16 17:30 - 18:30 | Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Westland District Library
Pirate Escape Game – Captain on the Loose
Aimed at 8+yrs old childre.
Registration ESSENTIAL by email library@westlib.co.nz or 03 755 6208
Children under 8yrs old must be supervised by a caregiver at all times

The Great Western Murder Mystery
2026-04-18 19:00 - 23:30 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
NZ’s Longest running comedy show comes to Hokitika’s Regent Theatre with an interactive Murder Mystery! Dress up Western and try to solve this dastardly deed!

Energy Healing Workshop
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Greenstone Retreat Kumara, 45 Greenstone Road, Kumara, Westland, 7832, New Zealand
Greenstone Retreat – Kelly MacNeill
Learn Energy Healing for yourself, friends and family
Whatever your level – come for some interactive, energetic fun
Connect to your surroundings, nature, each other and the great cosmos
Grounding, Attuning, Permission and Protection – all in there
Healing for yourself – in there
Healing for others – in there
This is Sacred 7™ work – the first of many events. A springboard to Sacred Purpose.
Just bring yourself, some sustenance, layers of clothing – and an open heart and mind
Let the fun begin
Kelly is an energetic dynamo – a natural healer and channel – her process grounded in the teachings of The National Federation of Spiritual Healers (NFSH) – now The Healing Trust – UK.
If you are are newbie – Training Courses are in development to enable you to take these skills to a wider audience. Come along to this workshop and get a feel for it
If you already work in a healing environment – CPD and further training are on their way – these workshops and courses will elevate you – on all levels Come have some fun
AROHANUI
$160 for a WHOLE DAY with me
It is easy to Book Online (you can choose to pay now or later) – just go through the ticket link here – choose the School – Workshops and Tuition option – choose your workshop (Energy Healing) and date (25th April) – time (10am) and go through to checkout. Simples
Limited spaces. Intimate and powerful

Oceana Miniature Horse Family Fun Day
2026-04-26 11:00 - 16:00 | Kumara Racecourse, Otira Highway
Kumara Racecourse – gold coin entry
Display and judging of miniature horse jumping and obstacle course
Get up close with our miniature horses
Hobby horse competition for adults and children
Children’s competitions
Erzsi’s eats & espresso

Aotango - Hokitika Regent Theatre
2026-04-27 19:00 - 21:30 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
‘Ao’, meaning ‘world’ in Te Reo Maori is at the epicentre of AOTANGO. Enjoy their seamless fusion of world music and tango, in an eclectic mix of styles presented by musicians who call Aotearoa their home. Based in Tamaki Makaurau, AOTANGO features violinist Andrew Beer (APO Concertmaster), pianist Somi Kim (NZTrio), double bassist Gordon Hill (APO Section Principal), jazz guitarist Sam Swindells and award-winning accordionist Grayson Masefield.

The Pink HAMMER
2026-04-29 - 2026-05-02 | The Old Lodge Theatre, 11 Revell Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
A heartwarming kiwi comedy with a dramatic twist…
A play by Michelle Amas, directed by Sally Richardson
Weds 29th & Thurs 30th April
Fri 1st & Sat 2nd May
7pm at the Old Lodge Theatre Hokitika
Drinks, refreshments and licenced bar available

South Island Ultra Marathon
2026-05-09 | West Coast Wilderness Trail, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
Saturday 9th May 2026

This run is limited to 400 participants on the day. This Ultra caters for the beginner through to the Elite Ultra Athlete looking to do their fastest time. The Trail is a Grade 2 Mountain Bike Ride and does give some good uphill climbs, with the finish a good downhill to the seafront finish in Hokitika, total elevation is around 720m for the 100km run. “This is based off competitors records of 2021” and 500 m of elevation for the 54km.

4 Fantastic Runs on the West Coast Wilderness Trail, the 100km and 54km can be done as a Team of 2 or Individual. The 24km and 6km are individual solo events.

These Ultra Marathons give everyone the chance to experience some great racing in the beauty of the West Coast of New Zealand, whether you’re a first timer or an elite athlete, the challenge is here for you.

All 4 events finish on the Beach Front of Hokitika.

This is a fast trail and gives you the opportunity to do a very fast 100km. Being a runner’s course.

The South Island Ultra Marathon will be held on Saturday 9th May 2026 on the West Coast Wilderness Trail on the West Coast of the South Island.

There are 4 events all being held on the amazing West Coast Wilderness Trail where runners will experience Lakes, Reservoirs, Rivers, Streams, Water Races, Swing Bridges, Bridges from Historic Tram Lines, A Western Town, Forestry, Wetlands, Board Walks, Mountains and the Sea just to name a few things.
This ultra marathon has been described by the media as one of the most scenic ultra marathons in the World.
It is new Zealand’s Fastest and Most Scenic.

4 Events:

* South Island Ultra 100km Greymouth to Hokitika – Solo or Team of 2 (Teams change at Old Chch Road) – Starts at 5:00am
* South Island Ultra 54km Old Christchurch Road to Hokitika – Solo or Team of 2 (Team Change at Sunny Bight Feed Station) – Starts 8:00am
* South Island Warm Up 24km Lake Kaniere to Hokitika – Solo – Starts 11:00am
* South Island 6km Run/Walk Kaniere Township – Starts 11:45am

The Big Bike Film Night - Hokitika Regent Theatre
2026-05-13 19:00 - 21:30 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
The Big Bike Film Night is on a mission – bringing the best short cycling films from around the world together for you. Showcasing 2.5 hours of mesmerizing bike films that have everything a cycle-centric audience could want, action, drama, humour, and plenty of inspiration. The evening is unashamedly and utterly, utterly, utterly designed and devised to delight the two-wheel devotee! The 2026 treasure chest of films includes: – a dazzling mountain bike ride exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, embracing the magic of the midnight sun – a life-changing experience for two adventurous women as they embark to cycle to all the ski-fields in New Zealand in one gigantic attempt – an inspiring film that captures the wettest, most miserable riding conditions imaginable – a film that playfully delves into the world of those taking cycling to new heights – celebrating fun, silliness, and creativity that comes with pushing boundaries on two wheels – a compelling story about perseverance, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of navigating daily life following a life-altering injury, and how adaptive design has transformed and enriched the journey forward – a moving movie that follows a father and son’s journey as they take on one of life’s most meaningful milestones- riding a bike together as a family – a bold and uplifting story of an adventure activist, attempting to break the 24-hour Guinness World Record in downhill mountain biking- all to raise funds for reforesting foothills around Queenstown, New Zealand. Her relentless pursuit not only pushes the limits of endurance but also becomes a powerful symbol of resilience and environmental commitment – and crowning the night off- we all love an underdog tale. This charming, funny, heartfelt film inspires us to believe that we all have the capacity to be unlikely heroes in our own stories. The audience is transported back to the nostalgic 1990’s, to the slopes of the punishing Mont Ventoux, in Southern France, to witness the drama of a battle between two giants ALL in the mix! These short films are a great reminder of why we love to ride our bike; with stories that captivate us, stories that move us, and most importantly of all – inspiring us to get out and ride. All celebrate the fun, adventure, and joy that cycling enables. So…listen to the voice inside you; it’s telling you to go. Grab your mates, GO ON…grab your bike and come along for the ride!! PREVIOUS ATTENDEE’S COMMENTS: “One of the most inspiring events of the year” “If you only have one night a year out, make it this!!” “The Big Bike Film Night is always a wonderful, eclectic, wacky mix of films and I love it!” “If you haven’t experienced the cinematic excellence of The Big Bike Film Night – then YOU MUST!!!”

Sean Kelly & the Super 8's
2026-05-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Irish folk music and stories, with old movies. Enjoy live Irish music played to the backdrop of Super 8 movies taken in Ireland, with Sean Kelly on vocals, whistles, bodhran and guitar, Jono Lonie on fiddle and mandolin and Maree Limpus on cello. Presented in association with Arts on Tour

Mudfish Bush Railway 5th Birthday Celebrations
2026-05-30 10:00 - 2026-06-01 16:00 | Westland Industrial Heritage Park, 9 Brian Waugh Lane, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
Come along and celebrate the 5th Birthday of our Iconic Mudfish Bush Railway!
Visiting trains from Greymouth and Christchurch, including a steam train or 2.
Saturday 10am to 3pm (Park and Railway), then the ‘Train of Terror’ 5pm to 7pm (Railway only).Sunday 10am to 3pm (Park and Railway).Monday 10am to 2pm (Park and Railway).
Note: train runs weather permitting!
FREE Entry to the Park! Train rides $2 per person per ride, with 6-rides for $10. Cash or EFTPOS!
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South African Night - Ocean View Restaurant
2026-05-30 19:00 - 22:00 | the beachfront hotel, 111 Revell Street, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
What a night it was last year We’re bringing the energy back on 30 May 2026!
Join us for an exciting and entertaining night – everyone is welcome!Seats fill fast so secure yours early.

A Line in the Sandstone
2026-06-02 17:30 - 18:30, 2026-06-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Hokitika Regent Theatre, 23 Weld Street, Hokitika, Westland, 7810, New Zealand
A Line in the Sandstone is a new grassroots film that follows a collaboration between activists and highliners to traverse a highline set across a canyon deep in the wilderness of the Denniston Plateau.
Under Fast-track, the treasured Denniston Plateau could be torn apart for coal mining – a unique landscape shaped over millions of years reduced to a wasteland in less than a generation.
A Line in the Sandstone showcases a bold, suspended act of resistance to demonstrate what is at stake and what it means to stand in defence of it.
The screening will include the short documentary film Save Denniston, and Q&A

Annual Hokitika Lantern Parade
2026-06-05 17:30 - 19:30 | Custom House, Gibson Quay, Hokitika
This year our theme is “the moon and the Matariki stars” – we’ll be delivering lanterns to the schools and preschools again.
The parade will be held on the first fine Friday in June
The route will start and finish at the Custom house – you’ll walk around the moon stationed near the Tambo.
Food, drink, heating and “glow in the dark” activities kick off at 5.30pm with the parade starting at 6pm once it’s dark.
There is no cost to participate

Live Music at the Woody - Ric Hetherington
2026-06-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Woodstock Hotel, 250 Woodstock Rimu Road, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
Its a Big Weekend of Live Music at the Woody!!!
We kick off with TGI Friday featuring Ric Hetherington live from 6pm.
Saturday Night – a huge double-header from 7.30pm with Shakey Ground then the Runanga Blues Club.
*no cover charge – just great live music and good times
Sunday Night – The Hokitika Music Club Jam Night – all musicians welcome to jump up and join in
Sunday Roast Night – Special pricing available for Gold Card Holders
Courtesy Bus available, phone to book your seat

The Hokitika Music Club Jam Night
2026-06-07 18:00 - 21:00 | Woodstock Hotel, 250 Woodstock Rimu Road, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
Sunday Night Live Music at the Woody with the Hokitika Music Club Jam Night – all musicians welcome to jump up and join in!
Sunday Roast Night with special pricing for Gold Card Holders
Courtesy Bus available – phone to book your seat

Live Music at the Woody with Shakey Ground and Runanga Blues Club
2026-06-07 19:30 - 22:00 | Woodstock Hotel, 250 Woodstock Rimu Road, Hokitika, Westland, New Zealand
Its a Big Weekend of Live Music at the Woody!!!
Saturday Night – a huge double-header from 7.30pm with Shakey Ground then the Runanga Blues Club.
*no cover charge – just great live music and good times
Sunday Night – The Hokitika Music Club Jam Night – all musicians welcome to jump up and join in
Sunday Roast Night – Special pricing available for Gold Card Holders
Courtesy Bus available, phone to book your seat
