Featherston’s Heritage Festival is to be held this coming weekend from Friday 13 November to Sunday 15 November. Supported by the Council’s inaugural Economic Development Fund, this event celebrates local stories, brings people together and strengthens South Wairarapa’s heritage rich identity.
Featherston Heritage Museum is one of this year’s successful recipients of the Council’s inaugural Economic Development Fund, which recognises the value of locally led events that help to create a vibrant, welcoming and economically active district.
The Economic Development Fund provided welcomed support for the Featherston Heritage Museum, which is running the Featherston Heritage Festival. The grant was distributed earlier this year and enabled the museum to plan early, secure presenters and contributors and develop a well-coordinated festival programme.
The weekend is centred around bringing Featherston Pae Tū Mōkai’s history to life in stories, movie screenings, tours and family-friendly events as well as dinners.
The Economic Development Fund is designed to support initiatives that build on South Wairarapa’s strengths, encourage local participation and help create opportunities for communities and businesses. The Featherston Heritage Festival is a strong example of this approach, showcasing the town’s rich history as well as celebrating its town centre, hospitality, retail and visitor experiences.
For the museum, the support reinforces the importance of volunteer-led organisations in building a thriving district. The festival is being guided by a committed team, including festival Funding Director Jean McDowall, festival Chair Dr John McDowall, Vice Chair Peter Biggs CNZM, Programme Director Annelise Schroeder, Tana Klaricich, Dan Richardson, Mona Hurnen and Simone Baker.
While visitors and locals gather in Featherston this weekend, the Heritage Festival’s impact will extend well beyond the event itself, helping preserve local stories, foster community participation and celebrate the unique heritage that makes South Wairarapa a distinctive destination, rich in stories, character and places to discover.
Bookings for the Featherston Heritage Festival can be made online at Featherston Heritage Festival 2026 – Eventfinda