Where is the festival held?

Kirtan Fest Aotearoa takes place at Strathean Retreat Centre, located at 212 Old Hautere Road, Hautere, Ōtaki, New Zealand. The retreat centre is surrounded by beautiful old-growth forest and open fields and is easily accessible from Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast.

 

When does the festival start and finish?

The festival runs from Saturday 2 January to Tuesday 5 January.

• Arrival: from 3pm on Saturday

• Festival close: 2pm on Tuesday

For those staying on site, most accommodation has a 4pm check-out, or 2pm if you are staying through Tuesday only.

 

What accommodation options are available?

There are several accommodation options available:

• Camping (tents or campervans – all sites are non-powered)

• Private or shared rooms or cabins

A limited number of Day Passes are also available for those who prefer to stay off-site and attend during the day.

Children under 5 years old attend free.

 

What food is available?

Strathean Retreat is a vegetarian-only site.

• Food during the festival includes:

• Food trucks on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday lunch

Two lunches included with your ticket (Tuesday and Wednesday)

Lunch meals included:

• Tuesday: Hare Krishna Kai Buffet (12–2pm)

• Wednesday: Community Lunch  - beans, rice, salad, corn chips, greek yoghurt

Breakfasts are self-catered using either the venue kitchen or the camp kitchen.

Meal numbers must be confirmed by 31 December, so if you book after this date a meal ticket may not be available.

 

Can I prepare my own food?

Yes. Self-catering is possible using the camp kitchen (for campers) or the venue kitchen.

However, individual gas burners are not permitted.

 

What should I bring?

You may wish to bring items that will help you stay comfortable throughout the festival, such as:

• Comfortable clothing suitable for movement and singing

• Something to sit on in the kirtan marquee/cushion

• Warm layers for the evenings

• A water bottle

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

• A torch or headlamp for moving around at night

• Camping gear if you are staying on site

• Wet weather gear (if needed)

Most importantly, bring an open heart and a willingness to join in the music and community.

 

Is the festival suitable for families?

Yes. Kirtan Fest Aotearoa is family-friendly and welcoming for all ages.

A Kids Zone runs daily with dedicated sessions so children can enjoy the festival while parents take part in activities.

Children under 5 must remain under the supervision of a parent or caregiver.

 

Are there markets or healing spaces?

Yes. During the festival there are spaces where you can explore and connect with each other.

These include:

• Market stalls (ticket holders only)

• Healing Sanctuary

• Cacao / Chai tent

• Opportunities to meet musicians, facilitators, and other members of the community.

 

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately dogs are not permitted at the festival. This helps ensure the comfort and safety of all attendees and respects the retreat environment.

 

Is the festival alcohol and drug free?

Yes. Kirtan Fest Aotearoa is a drug and alcohol free gathering, helping create a safe and supportive space for music, practice, and community.

 

Can I use my phone during the festival?

We encourage everyone to be as device-free as possible, so that people can be fully present and enjoy the atmosphere of the gathering.

 

Can I attend for just one day?

A limited number of Day Passes are available for those who wish to attend during the day and stay off-site.

 

How can I support someone who might not otherwise be able to attend?

We offer a Pay It Forward option to help support people experiencing financial hardship. If you are able, you may wish to contribute towards helping others attend the festival.

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What is the Refund Policy?

Full refunds are available up to 30 days before the event, minus your Humanitix booking fee and a $20 admin fee.  
50% refunds are available up to 14 days before the event, minus your Humanitix booking fee and a $20 admin fee.
Refunds at our discretion 14 days or less before the event, minus your Humanitix booking fee and a $20 admin fee.

 

How can I get updates or ask questions?

For enquiries or updates, you can contact the organisers directly:

• Email: kirtanfest.aotearoa@gmail.com

• Adhyatma: 021 054 8756

• Anna: 021 024 30430

You can also follow Kirtan Fest Aotearoa on Facebook for updates and announcements.