A Taste of Matarangi takes a break - will return in 2027

The festival, known for bringing together delicious food, local music, and community spirit, has been a highlight on the Coromandel calendar for over a decade. Since its beginnings, more than $150,000 has been donated to local community groups — a testament to the support from sponsors, volunteers, attendees, and suppliers over the years.

Over A Decade of Success and Generosity

Over 10 events, A Taste of Matarangi has become more than just a celebration of food and music — it's grown into a community-driven fundraiser with far-reaching impact. Local organisations and causes have benefited from the event’s proceeds, making it a meaningful occasion for everyone involved.

And, this success has been possible thanks to the dedication of its volunteer-run committee, supported by local businesses, performers, the wider community and event attendees.

Volunteer Changes Prompt a Pause

This year we have seen some changes happening with a number of our wonderful long serving volunteers deciding to take a break from assisting and managing the event, this has left a huge gap in the organising of next year's event. This happening, along with the need to legally formalise some processes around the running of the event has left the rest of the volunteer committee having to make the decision, after much deliberation, to push pause on 2026.

– A Taste of Matarangi Festival Committee. 

Confirmed Return Date: April 3, 2027

While the committee acknowledges this news may disappoint some, they’re quick to reassure the public that A Taste of Matarangi is not over. A new committee and trust are now in development, with a confirmed date already set for the next event: Saturday, April 3, 2027.

Looking to the future, the new organising team hopes to expand the event’s reach by developing additional community events in Matarangi and the surrounding areas. These plans aim to keep the local spirit alive and offer even more opportunities for connection and celebration.

A Taste of Matarangi success in 2025

The Festival Committee reported that despite lower ticket sales compared to previous years, the spirit of the day and the generosity of the community made it a memorable and meaningful event.

Thanks to the efforts of our volunteers, sponsors, and attendees, the Festival Committee were able to raise a total of $15,000 to donate to their chosen charitable recipients as the following contributions:

• Kuaotunu Search & Rescue (KSAR): $7,000
• Te Rerenga School: $4,000
• Coromandel Rescue Helicopter Trust: $4,000. 

Staying Connected

The A Taste of Matarangi team remains grateful for the ongoing support from the local community, and encourages anyone with questions or interest in getting involved to reach out by contacting their team on: info@atasteofmatarangi.co.nz.