Ten Years Of Art, Story And Spectacle: The 2025 Hawke's Bay Arts Festival Programme Has Landed
Taking place from 9 – 19 October across Hastings, Havelock North and Napier, the Festival will present live music, dance, theatre, circus and a range of visual art exhibitions and family-friendly events.
Festival Director Jade Baker says the 2025 programme is a celebration of legacy and possibility.
'This year's Festival is a reflection of everything we've learned that the community loves, over the past ten years. But it's also a call to keep going.'
'Creativity bridges imagination and reality,' continues Ms Baker. 'It fuels problem solving, innovation, and connection and it deserves greater recognition in Aotearoa. The arts don't just enrich lives; they shape stronger, more resilient communities. They help us make sense of the world around us and remind us what it means to be human.'
'Whether it's your first time at the Festival or your tenth, we want everyone to feel welcome. There's something in the programme for every age, every price point, and every kind of curiosity,' says Baker.
Headlining the Festival is Cirque Bon Bon – a glittering, high-energy circus spectacular fresh from sell-out shows across Australia. Other highlights include the return of internationally acclaimed soul singer Deva Mahal, bold new contemporary dance work Holding Ground by New Zealand Dance Company, critically acclaimed theatre pieces Hysterical and Guru of Chai, immersive jazz cabaret The Velvet Rebels, and an intimate indie-folk gig, Fables.
The Festival also features a wide range of visual art, family-friendly events, and regionally rooted programming that reflects the creative spirit of Hawke's Bay.
Mayor of Hastings Sandra Hazlehurst says the return of the Festival marks an exciting milestone for the region.
'It's a real pleasure to welcome the Hawke's Bay Arts Festival back to Heretaunga Hastings for its tenth anniversary. This event brings such vibrancy and creativity to our community, and it's wonderful to see it return with a programme that reflects the best of who we are.
From performances at Toitoi: Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre to family events and exhibitions, the Festival offers something for everyone, and it plays an important role in strengthening the cultural life of our region. I encourage everyone to get out and support it.'
Ms Baker encourages locals to plan their Festival early and get behind the arts this October.
'Come out for a night of laughter, music, story or spectacle. Bring your mates, book your tickets, and support the artists who inspire, challenge, and connect us. Some shows will sell fast - so get in early and be part of it.'
The full programme is available to view on the Hawke's Bay Arts Festival website. Tickets will go sale 9.00am Thursday 31 July via www.hbaf.co.nz and Eventfinda.
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