About Worsfold Farm
Worsfold Farm is a rural private farm venue near the village of Kaiwaka in Northland, New Zealand (address: 420 Settlement Road, Kaiwaka 0573 (www.kiwiarchive.biz )). It sits about an hour’s drive north of Auckland and offers a scenic open-air setting among rolling pastures and native bush. The farm has been in the Worsfold family for decades, embodying a “vision for the land” that the late farmer Bill Worsfold championed (notices.nzherald.co.nz ). In recent years, the farm has become best known as the site of major outdoor music festivals and events, giving local significance to this otherwise quiet coastal community. It’s also in a town known historically as the “Little Town of Lights,” a nickname born from seasonal festive displays along Kaiwaka’s main road (www.localmatters.co.nz ). In sum, Worsfold Farm is notable for its blend of bucolic countryside ambience and large-scale live entertainment, a unique combination in rural Northland.
Events and Programming
Worsfold Farm is mainly used for multi-day music festivals and large gatherings, the most famous being the annual Northern Bass New Year’s festival. Northern Bass, a drum-and-bass/electronic festival, has been held at Worsfold Farm (often promoted as Mangawhai/Kaiwaka) for over ten years (thespinoff.co.nz ). This R18 festival typically runs on Dec 29–31 each year, with dozens of local and international artists performing across several stages. Past lineups have included international stars such as New York rapper Action Bronson and UK MC Stefflon Don, Canadian DJ group Keys N Krates, as well as New Zealand favorites like Shapeshifter (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Organizers design it as a full camping festival: on-site camping passes are sold, multiple bars and food stalls operate 24/7, and amenities like hot showers are provided (ra.co ) (northernbass.co.nz ). Other events on the farm have followed a similar format, but Northern Bass is the standout draw, turning Worsfold Farm into a major concert hub each New Year’s Eve. (In January 2017, tickets for Northern Bass were sold through local record stores and ticket agencies, illustrating the high demand (www.undertheradar.co.nz ).)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Worsfold Farm events typically go on sale months in advance through official channels (event websites or authorized ticket services). For large festivals like Northern Bass, early bird and presale tickets are released first, followed by general sales. These events often sell out, so fans are advised to register interest or buy early. For example, one festival year used local record shops and online ticketing to handle sales (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Pricing varies by event and ticket type, but multi-day festival passes can run into the high hundreds of NZD. Premium upgrades are sometimes offered; for instance, the Northern Bass festival included a “Fuzen Lounge” pass – a VIP viewing area with a commanding main-stage view – as a high-end add-on (www.ticketfairy.com ). Any camping pass or VIP upgrade is usually purchased separately. In most cases there is no box office on site, and door sales are not guaranteed, so planning ahead is strongly recommended.
Seating and Layout
Worsfold Farm’s venue layout is entirely outdoor and informal. There are no fixed seats or auditorium – the ground is mostly grassfield where visitors stand or sit on portable camping chairs. Multiple stages (often an open-air main stage plus smaller side stages) are set up on cleared pastures. Audience areas are general admission and flat, allowing fans to move around freely. (For example, the Jungle Stage at Northern Bass was the focal point of celebration.) Good vantage points depend on personal preference: die-hard fans often stand near the front for the full-volume experience, while others gather on the edges or gentle slopes for a view from afar. The festival production crews use full-scale concert sound systems and lighting rigs typical of outdoor music events, so sound carries across the open fields. Premium viewing options are rare – aside from VIP lounge upgrades like Fuel bars when available (www.ticketfairy.com ), everyone shares the open space. In short, the site is a free-form lawn layout designed for the grassroots festival vibe.
Getting There and Parking
Worsfold Farm is located at 420 Settlement Road in Kaiwaka (near Mangawhai) (www.kiwiarchive.biz ). By car, take State Highway 1 through Kaiwaka and turn onto Settlement Road. It’s approximately 100 km north of Auckland CBD (around 1–1.5 hours’ drive) and about 30 km from Whangārei. The rural site offers on-site parking in field lots when events occur, usually free or by donation for charity, but attendees should expect basic farm-style parking (earth surface) and sometimes muddy conditions after rain. Carpooling or arriving early can help avoid congestion. Worsfold Farm is not on any commuter train line, so driving remains the easiest option for most visitors.
Public transportation is limited in Kaiwaka. Regional bus services go to nearby towns (Wellsford or Whangārei), but there is no direct local bus to the farm itself. However, for major events like Northern Bass, organizers often provide charter shuttle buses. For example, a festival shuttle made stops at the Kaiwaka Community Centre on Kaiwaka–Mangawhai Road (www.ticketfairy.com ) (the town’s main corner), as well as at Mangawhai Village locations. Event shuttles run on a set schedule from Auckland and other local hubs. Otherwise, taxis or ride-share drivers can drop off at the farm entrance on Settlement Road. Note that cell reception around Kaiwaka can be patchy, so pre-arrange lifts if possible.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, guests must typically present a valid ticket and sometimes ID if the event is age-restricted. Security staff perform bag checks, particularly if alcohol rules are in effect. For instance, Northern Bass enforced a strict “no outside alcohol” policy (even in parking areas) (www.ticketfairy.com ), so anything brought in is checked. Once inside, attendees find a communal festival atmosphere under the open sky. Expect several food trucks and stalls offering local cuisine and snacks (ra.co ), plus beer and drink vendors. Common amenities like portable toilet blocks are plentiful (often upgraded or expanded for each event) (ra.co ). Many large events even have hot shower areas and phone-charging stations on site (northernbass.co.nz ) (ra.co ). There is often a small shop or “camp store” selling water, snacks, and basic camping supplies (ra.co ). First-aid tents and lost-and-found are typically available too. Mobile phone coverage can be weak in the remote farm setting, but organizers sometimes set up dedicated charging lockers or stations (northernbass.co.nz ). Overall, the atmosphere is casual and adventurous: people wander between stages, lounging on grass, and self-service rules apply (e.g. no formal coat check).
Nearby Amenities
The immediate Kaiwaka township is very small and has only basic services. Within a few minutes’ drive, you’ll find a Four Square grocery/dairy store and a bottle shop, a modest café (the Coffee Pot at Gateway North Lodge is well-known) and a retro-style pub (the Kaiwaka Hotel or local bar) serving meals and drinks. These places are convenient for quick bites, snacks, or last-minute supplies. For fuller options, the coastal village of Mangawhai Heads is only about 10 km away (roughly 10–15 minutes by road). Mangawhai offers a lively village centre with restaurants, cafés, bakeries and bars by the harbour (wanderlog.com ). Popular spots include casual takeaways and beachside eateries. Other nearby towns are Waipu (to the south) and Wellsford (to the north), each with dining and motel choices. If staying overnight, Kaiwaka has a few motels and camping parks, but many visitors opt for the wider range of accommodation in Mangawhai (from camping grounds to holiday rentals) or even Whangārei, given the rural nature of Kaiwaka. Early dining reservations are wise on event days, as local spots can fill up.
What Makes This Venue Special
Worsfold Farm stands out because it blends pastoral charm with big-event energy. Unlike urban arenas, this venue immerses visitors in open farmland – the horizon and night sky are part of the experience. The rustic backdrop (rolling green paddocks, native bush, distant hills) gives concerts a unique ambience. The family-run nature adds local character: the Worsfold name carries heritage here (the site was home to a pioneering local farmer (notices.nzherald.co.nz )). Culturally, it has put Kaiwaka on the map as a music destination, drawing crowds from around the country and even abroad. A sense of community pervades – for instance, festivalgoers become part of a shared New Year’s ritual in a tiny town. One local writer even captures Kaiwaka’s identity by noting how festive light displays once made it “the ‘little town of lights’… a legend” to holidaymakers (www.localmatters.co.nz ). Events at Worsfold Farm carry forward that playful, creative spirit. Artists love the rural escape and freedom the site affords (no neighbours to annoy!), and audiences love dancing under the stars without city distractions. In short, the venue’s specialness comes from its combination of authentic rural scenery, family-farm warmth, and festival-grade production – a rare blend in New Zealand’s live scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Prepare for weather: As an outdoor farm venue, events at Worsfold Farm are subject to the elements. In summer it can get hot and sunny, so pack sunscreen, a hat and water gear. At night or in cooler months, dress in layers – it can feel chilly after the sun sets. Mud is likely if it rains, so wear sturdy shoes or boots you don’t mind getting dirty. Umbrellas and raincoats are good for light showers, but note that heavy winds or lightning may prompt event delays. Check the weather forecast ahead of time and bring a poncho if rain’s in the cards. Arrival time: For popular events, arrive early. Gates often open in the morning or early afternoon (for example, a past Northern Bass opened doors at 9:00am (www.undertheradar.co.nz )) to fit a long program. Arriving 30–60 minutes before gate time helps beat lines. Identification: Many big events are age-restricted. Northern Bass is strictly R18 (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), so bring photo ID (passport or driver’s licence) if attending. If under 18, double-check the event policy; minors are usually not allowed at nightlife festivals. Bag and item rules: Expect a bag search on arrival. Prohibited items often include bottled alcohol, weapons, fireworks, and illegal drugs. (For example, Northern Bass explicitly banned any BYO alcohol (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Most venues allow common items like cameras, snacks, sunscreen, and blankets. Drones or professional recording gear are typically not permitted unless arranged with organizers. Comfort: Bring earplugs for loud music, and portable phone chargers if you have them (cell service is spotty on the farm). A small daypack or fanny pack is recommended to carry essentials. Folding chairs or picnic mats are fine for lounging (outside the crowd), but keep walkways clear. Hydration is key – even if water is sold onsite, carrying a refillable bottle is wise. Behavior: Be respectful of the farm environment. Dispose of garbage in provided bins or take it with you. Noise is expected at the festival, but do tread carefully around quiet camping zones if applicable. Finally, follow any COVID-19 guidance in effect (e.g. vaccination or masks) as imposed by the event or the government.
How do I buy tickets for events at Worsfold Farm?
Tickets are sold only through the event organizers’ official channels. This means you buy them online (usually via the event website or a major ticketing service), often months in advance. There is typically no box office at the farm, so make sure to purchase tickets in advance. For example, past festivals used local vendors and online sites for sales (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Keep an eye on the event’s announcements for sale dates and authorized sellers.
Can I buy tickets on the day of the event?
Day-of-event tickets are not guaranteed and are often not available, especially for popular festivals. Most events sell out quickly. If extra tickets are offered, it’s usually a very limited number. It’s safest to buy tickets well before the event date. If you try for ticket sales on the day, you risk disappointment, as many Worsfold Farm events (like Northern Bass) sell out ahead of time.
What are typical ticket prices and tiers at Worsfold Farm events?
Prices vary by event and offerings. Multi-day festivals at Worsfold Farm often cost several hundred New Zealand dollars for a standard pass. Early-bird tickets may be cheaper. VIP or lounge upgrades (such as a “Fuzen Lounge” at one event) command higher prices (www.ticketfairy.com ). Camping or parking passes may be extra. Always check the event’s official ticket info – it will list different tiers (general admission, VIP, camping, etc.) and their prices in NZD.
Where is Worsfold Farm located and how do I get there?
Worsfold Farm is at 420 Settlement Road, Kaiwaka 0573 (Northland, NZ) (www.kiwiarchive.biz ). To reach it, drive up State Highway 1 from Auckland or south from Whangārei and turn onto Settlement Road at Kaiwaka. The farm is rural, so driving or event shuttles are the easiest way. Enter the farm’s main gate when you arrive. (Kaiwaka is about an hour north of Auckland (northernbass.co.nz ), with the farm just outside the village.)
Is there parking at Worsfold Farm, and is it free?
Yes, most events offer on-site parking in farm fields near the venue. For large festivals like Northern Bass, parking is typically included with your ticket or available for a nominal fee/donation. There is no paved parking lot – it’s open farmland, so wear shoes that can handle uneven or muddy ground. Shuttle parking areas may also be organized for buses. In general, expect parking to be convenient and close to the entrance for those who drive.
Can I use public transport to reach Worsfold Farm?
There is no direct public bus or train to Worsfold Farm. The nearest bus stops are in the town of Kaiwaka or nearby Mangawhai, but you would still need a taxi or ride-share to the farm itself. For major events, organizers sometimes run shuttle buses from Auckland or Kaiwaka. For example, a festival shuttle made a stop at the Kaiwaka Community Centre (4 Kaiwaka–Mangawhai Road) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In normal times, your best bet is driving or arranging a taxi to the venue.
What kind of seating or viewing areas are available?
Worsfold Farm events are generally free-form and outdoors. There are no fixed seats or covered stands – the audience stands or sits on the grassy ground. Most venues are general admission, so you can choose your own spot. People often bring portable chairs or picnic blankets if they want to sit. Close-to-the-stage areas give the best experience, but others choose hilltops or shaded spots at the back. VIP ticket holders (if offered) may have a special area with a better view, as was the case with the Fuzen lounge at one festival (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are there any accessible seating or viewing options for disabled guests?
Worsfold Farm is a large outdoor farm field, which can be uneven. For accessibility, organizers often set up reserved viewing areas close to stages for guests in wheelchairs or with mobility needs. These areas have level ground. If you require assistance, contact the event organizers ahead of time – they can usually arrange a ramp or a personal guide. Keep in mind that grass and dirt paths may be challenging in bad weather, so plan accordingly.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to Worsfold Farm events?
No, outside food and drinks are generally discouraged or banned. Organizers typically want you to buy food inside to support vendors. In particular, alcoholic drinks are often prohibited from being brought in. For example, Northern Bass enforced a strict “no BYO alcohol” policy, and any outside drink would be confiscated (www.ticketfairy.com ). Soft drinks and snacks might be allowed if unopened, but it’s best to expect to purchase refreshments on site.
What items are prohibited on site?
Each event may have its own list, but common prohibited items include alcohol, glass bottles, illegal drugs, fireworks/sparklers, weapons, and professional filming equipment. Many festivals ban any BYO alcohol (www.ticketfairy.com ) and glass containers. Drones are almost always disallowed for safety. Check the event’s official rules page before you pack. If in doubt, leave it at home. Typical acceptable items include phones, small cameras, blankets, non-glass water bottles, and snacks (again, some foods may be discouraged).
Are children allowed at Worsfold Farm events?
That depends on the event’s age restrictions. The Northern Bass festivals are strictly 18+ and do not allow under-18s (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Other events may be family-friendly, but many music festivals at the farm are adult-oriented. Always check the age policy for your specific event. If minors are allowed, parents should still be aware there are no special kids’ zones – it’s a rustic outdoor scene.
Are cameras or phones allowed inside?
Mobile phones are allowed, and most people take photos or videos freely. Personal point-and-shoot or phone cameras for non-commercial use are typically fine. Professional cameras (interchangeable lens DSLRs) and video equipment may require press passes or permission. Check the event’s photography policy. Generally, the relaxed farm environment means personal photos are OK, but organized camera crews will have badges. There is usually no strict dress code; casual festival wear is the norm.
Will there be food, drink, and restroom facilities on site?
Yes. Events at Worsfold Farm always include vendor stalls. You’ll find multiple food trucks and snack stands (e.g. burgers, pizzas, ethnic cuisine) along with bar tents serving beer and cider (ra.co ). Water stations or bottled water are available for purchase. Organizers also set up lots of portable toilets (often touchscreen or landscaped for comfort). For multi-day festivals, there are usually shower blocks – one event even advertised “hot showers and a redesigned toilet area” for campers (ra.co ). The farm itself has no permanent facilities, so everything needed is rented/installed for the event. Lastly, first aid tents are provided in case of injury.
Is there mobile phone service or Wi-Fi at Worsfold Farm?
Mobile phone coverage at Worsfold Farm can be weak because it’s semi-rural. Don’t count on a strong signal for calls or 4G data. Many events go offline by design (under the open sky). However, organizers often mitigate this by providing charging stations for phones (northernbass.co.nz ). Some events also rent Sat-phone or Wi-Fi spots. It’s wise to charge your phone beforehand and maybe carry a backup battery. Emergency communications are handled by on-site first-aid crews.
What is the capacity of Worsfold Farm during events?
The farm can host several thousand people, depending on how tightly the fields are packed. For context, recent editions of the Northern Bass festival at Worsfold Farm capped tickets around 5,000–6,000 attendees (northernbass.co.nz ). Capacity is usually determined by safety regulations and amenities (toilets, exits, etc.). There is plenty of open space, but once tickets are sold out, the event is considered at capacity. The exact number varies with each event’s setup.
Is Worsfold Farm an indoor venue, and what happens if it rains?
Worsfold Farm is 100% outdoors – there are no indoor halls or fixed roofs. Performances happen under open sky or under temporary stage covers. In light rain, events usually proceed (rain ponchos and mud boots are recommended). Severe weather (thunderstorms, cyclones) could force delays or evacuation for safety. No formal "rainout" refunds are guaranteed; instead events often have weather contingency plans (like extended schedules on secondary days). Check the organizer’s weather policy, but be prepared for outdoor conditions.
When should I arrive for an event at Worsfold Farm?
You should arrive at least 30–60 minutes before gates open. This �helps ensure smooth entry before the crowd peaks. For example, one New Year’s event opened gates at 9:00 AM (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), and fans were queuing well before then. Plan extra time for parking and walking to the stage. Also note that evening events can be accessed early in the day if camping – so arriving on the earlier side gives a relaxed start.
Why is Worsfold Farm considered a special venue?
Worsfold Farm is special because it combines rural charm with a professional festival experience. Unlike city theaters or stadiums, you’re in the open country — the stage might overlook rolling paddocks or bush. The family-owned farm vibe gives a friendly, laid-back feel. Also, it’s rare to have world-class music acts come to a tiny town like Kaiwaka. This uniqueness has turned local tradition (like Kaiwaka’s nickname, ‘little town of lights’ (www.localmatters.co.nz )) into a festival atmosphere under the stars. Both artists and audiences cite the relaxed farm setting as a highlight – it feels like a big party on a beautiful farm.
Who owns Worsfold Farm and what is its history?
Worsfold Farm is a private family property. It was home to the late William “Bill” Worsfold, an environmentalist and farmer who passed away peacefully on the farm in 2017 (notices.nzherald.co.nz ). The Worsfold family has long worked the land in Kaiwaka, so the venue carries their name. The farm itself was always an agricultural property, but in recent years it opened up for public events. The family’s vision for combining land stewardship with community gatherings is often recognized. In that sense, Worsfold Farm’s history is one of local farming heritage evolving into a live events space.
