There’s something special about a town that knows how to gather.
In Cambridge and across the Waipā district, events are more than just dates on a calendar. They are the rhythm of our community and across the year, our district punches well above its weight.
At the heart of it all is Fieldays at Mystery Creek Events Centre (read more on page 31), the
Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event. It’s a powerhouse for the regional economy, drawing tens of thousands of visitors and showcasing innovation, enterprise, and the deep rural roots that shape our district.
Equally iconic in a very different way is the Rotary Cambridge Garden Festival, a celebration of creativity, design, and the natural beauty of our town. Each year, visitors are invited behind the gates of some of the most stunning private gardens, paired with workshops, events, and experiences that reflect the region’s lifestyle and love of the outdoors. It’s a standout on
the calendar and a perfect fit for Cambridge’s sense of place.
Sport is another defining pillar. At Lake Karāpiro, national and international rowing regattas bring a buzz of competition and camaraderie, while the Grassroots Trust Velodrome reinforces our reputation as the Home of Champions. Add to that, equestrian events at Takapoto Estate and The Night of Champions at Cambridge Raceway and you have a district where performance and passion are part of everyday life.
But it’s not all high performance. It’s also high connection.
Events like the Cambridge Autumn Festival see the town in full colour, with markets, music, and community celebration drawing people into the heart of the CBD. The Cambridge Farmers’ Market has become a much-loved weekly ritual, while the Lions Trash ‘N’ Treasure Market and the Empire Street Markets are special offerings to be enjoyed.
There are too many to mention here, but if you are after more information on key events and local colour visit www.cambridge.co.nz/events/ for what’s on in Cambridge.
These are the connectors that build the fabric of our community.
What makes events in Cambridge truly special is the setting. Within minutes, you can move from a buzzing event precinct to riverside calm along the Waikato River, or out to the rolling countryside that defines our landscape.
In Cambridge, events are just the beginning.
They’re the invitation to experience a place that’s vibrant, connected, and proudly alive.
Good reason to head to Maungatautari
Tucked along three kilometres of Lake Karāpiro waterfront, Takapoto Estate is one of the Waikato’s most remarkable properties - 600 acres of thriving eco-sanctuary, world-class equestrian facilities, and boutique accommodation, all built on a foundation of deep environmental care.
Every Saturday, The Cabana at Takapoto Estate opens its doors for wine tastings from 11am to 4pm. Head winemaker Alex Coldicutt’s boutique line-up spans flagship Central Otago Pinot Noirs and the estate-grown Crossing Point range, a Waikato Chardonnay, Rosé, and Red Blend. Don’t miss the Forager’s Gin, crafted with kawakawa, manuka, horopito, and pohutukawa foraged from the estate’s own native bush. Tastings start from $20 per person, redeemable on a three-bottle purchase, with cheese platters and homemade pizza to match.
Or, make a day of it with a guided Takapoto Tour. Explore native trees and pest control techniques on foot, by car, or on your own e-bike. Check the event calendar for more.
Barkfest
Barkfest is back in Cambridge for 2026, delivering the ultimate doggy day out and bringing with it a whole lot of wagging tails, big smiles from all the family! Held at the beautiful Lake Te Koo Utu, this free, family-friendly event celebrates the “everyday dog” and the special bond we share with our four-legged friends. Following a hugely successful debut, Barkfest returns on Sunday 1 November with even more to see and do, from vibrant stalls and delicious food to face painting, photo booths, master classes and of course the popular competitions and races!
Crowd favourites like the Doggy Dash, Waggiest Tail, Look-a-Like, Bark Off and Best Trick competitions will be back to get everyone and every dog involved.
