2-5 January 2027 - Strathean Retreat, Ōtaki
Welcome to Kirtan Fest Aotearoa
Kirtan Fest Aotearoa is a community-rooted gathering centred on music, devotion, and shared joy.
Each summer people from across Aotearoa come together to sing, listen, connect, and celebrate
through the simple and powerful practice of kirtan - devotional chant shared in community.
Over several days voices rise together in song, friendships form easily,
and a welcoming space opens for people of all backgrounds to participate.
This website is a place to explore the festival, learn more about kirtan, discover the music and musicians
who bring it to life, and stay connected with the growing kirtan community in Aotearoa.
I had such a beautiful time at the Aotearoa Kirtan Festival this year. I've participated in kirtans around Europe for a while now, but the warm, welcoming, and joyful atmosphere of this festival is truly unique. There was so much space for expression and for all to participate and share in the bhakti that kirtan offers. Very grateful for this experience and the connections that were made. Thank you!
The Programme
Over four days, Kirtan Fest Aotearoa unfolds as a gathering of music, devotion, and community. From collective kirtan and sound journeys to movement, shared meals, and time in nature, the programme offers many ways to experience the yoga of the heart.
Each year is a little different, but the spirit remains the same - open, participatory, and welcoming to all.
Kirtan
Kirtan is a joyful, participatory form of devotional music where people come together to sing simple chants in a shared space of connection and celebration.
At the heart of the festival, it’s less about performance and more about joining in - voices, rhythm, and energy building together in a way that is both uplifting and deeply grounding.
Or take a look through moments from the 2026 gathering in our Gallery
Or take a look through moments from the 2026 gathering in our Gallery
Community
Across Aotearoa, a growing kirtan community is taking shape. From small local gatherings to festivals, people come together to sing, share food, and connect. Explore upcoming gatherings around the country - and if you’re hosting something, you’re warmly invited to get in touch.
Kirtan Fest itself is supported by a small team of Karma Yogis. If you feel called to offer your time and presence in service at the 2027 gathering, we’d love to hear from you.
Or take a look through moments from the 2026 gathering in our Gallery
About
Born from friendship and a shared passion for kirtan, Kirtan Fest Aotearoa began as a simple idea and has grown into an annual gathering of music and community.
At its heart is a vision of connection, rest, and shared experience.
Or take a look through moments from the 2026 gathering in our Gallery