Where will the Tuku 25 Whakatū events be held?

The events use a variety of venues and locations across the Nelson and Tasman region. However, most are centred well within a one-hour travel time from central Nelson. Look on individual event listings for specific event locations.

Is there a single ticket to attend all the festival events?

No. As the events are run by different people and organisations from across the community, separate ticketing and booking systems have been used. Some events are free and/or don’t require bookings, while others are ticketed or require you to book a space. Each individual event listing will detail this information.

Are Tuku Festivals all Māori cultural festivals?

Tuku Festivals are run in partnership with tangata whenua but it is an opportunity for the whole community to engage with the kaupapa, whatever their whakapapa. Some events touch on aspects of Māori culture, in particular events led by iwi, and hold that mana. Other events share the stories and culture from more recent migrants or peoples originating from across the world, including European. All stories are welcome to share under the Tuku banner.

Why is the festival held in Autumn?

As the festival grew from Nelson Heritage Week, it has retained its yearly April timing. World Heritage Day falls on April 18 and it’s also when ANZAC commemorations take place in New Zealand. In many cultures, the change of seasons is a good time to contemplate the past and look forward to the future.

Can I pick up a printed programme from somewhere?

Running up to the festival launch in March, printed programmes will be available at the Council customer services desks in Nelson and Richmond as well as several key accommodation providers, visitor locations such as the Suter Gallery and Provincial Museum, and Nelson Airport.

Can I add an event to Tuku 25 Whakatū?

Yes, you can submit an event listing and if required a grant application here. The submission deadline is 5pm Monday 8 January 2025.