The Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark is thrilled to announce its programme for the upcoming Geopark Festival, taking place from 27th to 29th October 2023. The exciting weekend will officially be opened on 26th October, offering visitors and locals alike an opportunity to celebrate Waitaki’s treasures.
While the Geopark is organising the overarching Festival, many of the events and activities are brought to you by our amazing local businesses, landowners and community organisations. Please refer to the specific event listing in the following detailed programme above or in the Geopark Festival category on our website for the precise booking information, as it does vary.
The Waitaki Whitestone UNESCO Global Geopark was endorsed as New Zealand’s first UNESCO Global Geopark in May this year. To commemorate this significant milestone with the community and visitors, the Geopark team in collaboration with over 35 local businesses and community organisations has put together a diverse and inspirational programme of activities spanning across the Waitaki District.
Manager of the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark, Lisa Heinz, says: “The Geopark Festival promises to be a weekend filled with inspiration and exploration. From guided tours to culinary delights made from local produce, from science-based educational activities to wetland tours, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
The Waitaki Whitestone Geopark Trust would like to thank all local collaborations for becoming an active part of the Geopark Festival. It is humbling to see how many businesses, organisations, landowners, and individuals have joined the first Geopark Festival and made it a diverse and fun offering for Waitakians and visitors.
Update 04 October: We are excited to announce that we received funding from the Lottery Community Funding For Change grant towards the coordination and promotion of the upcoming Geopark Festival. We are very grateful for this support which will enable us to spread the word even wider through increased marketing and collateral.
