The Programme.

Welcome to the Seaside Festival — summer fun, fresh sea air and unforgettable moments. From 5–15 February, Timaru’s most-loved locations come alive with a packed programme of events designed for all ages, from sunrise to sunset. Whether you’re chasing family-friendly activities, live music, outdoor movies, food and festival vibes, or simply an excuse to spend more time with friends and family, there’s something here for everyone.

​Dive in, explore the programme below, and start planning your perfect Seaside Festival summer.

5th Feb - Polo on the Beach - 2pm

For the first time ever, ​Caroline Bay will come alive with an early evening of Polo on the Beach. Enjoy an exciting match by the seaside, with thrilling polo action, great company, and a relaxed evening atmosphere. Perfect for friends, family, and sports fans alike.

​Free entry.

​The Finish Line Festival​

​Family Friendly Gig at Pharlap Raceway organised by CC & Pharlap Raceway.

Celebrate summer this Waitangi Day at The Finish Line Festival on Friday 6 February, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM at Phar Lap Raceway.

Enjoy an epic lineup of live music featuring The Groove Blues Band, VHS, Black Vinyl Classic Rock Band, Retrosonic, and Steffany Beck, alongside a huge Kidzone for little explorers, a variety of delicious food and drinks, and chill picnic vibes, bring your blanket and relax! Perfect for the whole whānau, the festival promises sunshine, live tunes, tasty bites, and non-stop fun. Grab your tickets, round up your crew, and join us for a day full of music, laughter, and good vibes.​​

Outdoor Movies on the Bay

Caroline Bay, Grass Area

​Grab your beanbags and rugs, get comfy, and settle in for a movie night on the Bay. Don’t forget your picnic and refreshments! It’s going to be an unforgettable evening with your family, enjoying a fantastic film together by the water.
​
Movie screenings:
• Shrek (5pm)
• Grease (7pm)
​
To help with waste minimisation, we ask that you take your rubbish home with you.

Presented by Movie Max Digital

Gold Coin Donation to charity

Blues in the Park

​​Join local Blues Band, The Groove from 1p - 3p for an afternoon of laid back tunes in the Botanical Gardens. Bring your family and friends, a picnic and relax.

​Free entry. ​

Food Truck Fiesta at Caroline Bay

Let us take care of dinner. Head on down to Caroline Bay from 4-9pm, bring your picnic rug and friends and enjoy​​ delicious street eats, live tunes, and a fun evening out with friends and family. 

​Free entry.

Gintastic

HiltonView Estate

​​Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with New Zealand's #1 boutique gin festival set against the breathtaking backdrop of HiltonView Estate.

Sip your way through handcrafted gin cocktails, enjoy gourmet bites, and soak up the sounds of live music from the Brad Staley Band — all in a relaxed, romantic rural setting.

This is an R18 event. Tickets available here.

---

Retro Rock at the Museum

The Great Beach Dig

Join us at 10am for our annual Great Beach Dig! Spend the morning by the shore digging, exploring and uncovering hidden treasures. Children will be split into three age groups on the day. Plastic digging equipment is permitted. 

​Free entry.

---

Caroline Bay Kite Day

​Caroline Bay, 12pm - 4pm

A crowd favourite, Caroline Bay comes alive with over 50 giant kites flown by professional kite flyers. You can even bring your own kite and join in the fun!​ ​​

Proudly Supported by: