Celebrate Christmas in Matakana with markets, parades and summer events. Stay at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge, your perfect holiday retreat.

Planning a Christmas escape or summer holiday in Matakana or Warkworth? December 2025 brings a mix of festive community traditions, iconic markets, and a major summer music festival. It’s all set in one of the most beautiful regions north of Auckland. Here’s your guide to events and seasonal activities to help you make the most of your stay in the Matakana Coast region.

Matakana Christmas Market

21 December 2025 – 9am to 2pm

Location: Matakana Country Market
Celebrate the festive season at the annual Matakana Christmas Market, returning to Matakana Country Park in December 2025. Expect artisan goods, local food stalls, gifts, handmade crafts, and live music, making this a great chance to shop local for Christmas while soaking up the summer atmosphere.

Warkworth Santa Parade

13 December 2025 at 11am to 3pm

Location: Along Baxter and Queen Street, Warkworth
The much-loved Warkworth Santa Parade brings the community together with colourful floats, performers, local groups, and of course, Santa himself. The parade starts at 11am on Saturday 13 December along Baxter Street, making it a perfect family outing for locals and visitors.

André Rieu 2025 Christmas Concert Screening

6 December 2025 at 3pm and 7 December 2025 at 4:30pm

Location: Matakana Cinemas
Celebrate the season in classic André Rieu style with the 2025 “Merry Christmas” concert screening at Matakana Cinemas. Experience joyful carols, beautiful waltzes and the majestic sound of Christmas. The ultimate Christmas cinema event!

Matakana Village Farmers Market

Every Saturday in December

Location: Matakana Village

The Matakana Village Farmers Market becomes particularly vibrant throughout December. Expect fresh produce, artisan pastries, locally made condiments, flowers, crafts, live music and a festive atmosphere as holiday travellers pass through Matakana Village. If you’re staying at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge, this is an easy and iconic weekend outing.

Hidden Valley Festival

27 December 2025

Location: Matakana Country Park
For those extending their stay beyond Christmas, Hidden Valley Festival returns on 27 December 2025. Held at Matakana Country Park, Hidden Valley is one of the region’s biggest summer music festivals featuring local and international artists, food trucks, bars, and high-energy entertainment, an excellent way to celebrate the summer holiday season.

Matakanarama Festival

29 - 31 December 2025

Location: Matakana, Rodney
The Matakanarama Festival returns to Matakana for a multi-day summer music and arts celebration. With live music, arts, food, and community experiences, it’s a highlight of the Matakana summer holiday season.

Make the Most of Your Matakana & Warkworth Summer Stay

Although the cooler months are traditionally oyster season, tours operate through summer when weather conditions are ideal for cruising. With clear skies, warm breezes, and longer days, it’s an easy addition to any Matakana getaway from Woodhouse Mountain Lodge. Advance booking is recommended, as tours depend on tide and weather.

Your Accommodation at Woodhouse Mountain Lodge

With festive markets, the Santa Parade, André Rieu screening, and major summer festivals, the region offers an incredible mix of relaxation and celebration. Woodhouse Mountain Lodge places you close to all the action while providing a peaceful luxury retreat. Stay with us this summer!

Matakana & Warkworth Christmas and Summer Events 2025