Warkworth showcase with the Kowhai Festival

The biggest family festival north of Auckland is on in and around Warkworth.

The 33rd annual Kowhai Festival attracts up to 30,000 people to the area during its 10 days and offers a showcase for the region's artists, such as painters, potters and sculptors.

Arts and crafts went on display in Warkworth's shop windows on Sunday, but the main activities kick off this Friday and continue throughout the weekend.

Events include a festival of flowers, a late harvest dinner and concert at Heron's Flight Vineyard, sea shanties at the town dock and a display of classic yachts, a disco, a hot rod and vintage vehicle display, kayak river rides and a festival golf tournament.

Contact: (09) 425 9081

email festival president Leslie Ginnever