About 420 Settlement Rd
420 Settlement Road refers to Worsfold Farm – a rural venue in Kaiwaka (near Mangawhai on Northland’s Matakana Coast) that’s best known as an open-air festival site (www.ticketfairy.com ) (theguide.live ). This family-owned cattle farm (scenic rolling pastures and native bush) doubles as a major music venue, blending bucolic countryside charm with big-event production (www.ticketfairy.com ). Each New Year’s, thousands flock here for the Northern Bass music festival: an all-night bass music party that has made the venue famous. Apart from these festivals, the site is just quiet farmland. (Incidentally, Kaiwaka itself is nicknamed the “Little Town of Lights” for its festive seasonal displays, adding local character (www.ticketfairy.com ).) In short, 420 Settlement Rd is notable not as a built arena but a unique rural concert ground – an abandoned farm transformed by DJs, lights and festival-goers under the open sky (www.ticketfairy.com ) (theguide.live ).
Events and Programming
Worsfold Farm’s calendar centers almost entirely on its mega-festival – Northern Bass – which runs every New Year’s (traditionally Dec 29–31, shifting to Dec 30–31 from 2025 on) and draws the biggest crowds of the year (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). This R18 electronic/dance festival features multiple stages (the iconic “Jungle Stage” is the main attraction) and usually includes world-class drum-&-bass and hip-hop acts. Past lineups have hosted international talent (Goldie, Sub Focus, Action Bronson, Keys N Krates, etc.) alongside top Kiwi artists (Lee Mvtthews, Shapeshifter, DJ Storm, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). With camping passes sold separately, Northern Bass is a full-weekender: food vendors, bars and amenities run round-the-clock and the party goes late into the night (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Aside from this annual festival, 420 Settlement Rd sees few other scheduled events; most of the year it is returned to pasture. Thus when crowds descend, the farm is essentially converted into a multi-stage festival site each summer (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at 420 Settlement (most notably Northern Bass) sell out fast. They are released months in advance through the official festival website or authorized ticket agents (www.ticketfairy.com ). These festivals use tiered pricing: early-bird/pre-sale tickets are cheapest and quick to vanish, with general-sale prices rising afterward. For example, recent three-day Northern Bass passes have been around NZ$280 each (plus fees) (www.ticketfairy.com ). VIP upgrades are available (e.g. a reserved “Jungle Lounge” viewing platform with extras) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and camper/carpark passes must be purchased separately. There is no traditional box office at the farm; in fact, organizers warn that on-site sales are not guaranteed (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always buy in advance through official channels, and watch for presale announcements (via newsletter or social media). When you arrive, tickets are scanned and must match the buyer’s photo ID (these events are strictly 18+, so bring ID) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because policies forbid refunds, purchase carefully and only from the festival’s authorized outlets.
Seating and Layout
As an outdoor festival field, 420 Settlement Rd has no fixed seats or balconies – everything is general admission. The ground is mostly flat grassland where people stand, dance or sit in their own camping chairs. Several stages are set up on cleared paddocks: usually one large main stage (the Jungle Stage at Northern Bass) and smaller side stages for variety (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no reserved seats, so you’re free to roam or stake out a spot. Getting close to the front delivers the loudest bass and most immersive experience, but some prefer the outer edges or gentle slopes for a balcony-like view over the crowd. A few elevated platforms (like the VIP Jungle Lounge) offer raised sightlines and amenities for ticket upgrades (www.ticketfairy.com ), but otherwise everyone shares the open layout. Because the terrain is flat, event sound systems are powerful enough to carry music across the fields – front rows feel the full force, while back areas hear it at a lower volume (www.ticketfairy.com ). In wet weather the farm’s grass can turn muddy, so many attendees expect to wear sturdy boots. In all, the layout is very informal – a vast lawn turned dancefloor, not a seated arena (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Getting There and Parking
420 Settlement Road is on Kaiwaka’s outskirts (postal Kaiwaka 0573, near Mangawhai). By car it’s roughly 100 km north of Auckland and about 30 km south of Whangārei (www.ticketfairy.com ). From Auckland or Wellsford you’d take State Highway 1 and exit onto Settlement Road at the Brynderwyns/Kaiwaka turnoff (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note: during events like Northern Bass, parts of Settlement Road may be closed to normal traffic – follow the festival’s signage or instructions upon approach (www.ticketfairy.com ). The farm offers onsite parking in perimeter paddocks. These lots are typically free or donation-based (often a charity drive). Expect basic farm-style parking (grass or dirt); it can become very muddy after rain (www.ticketfairy.com ). Carpooling is wise to reduce traffic snarls (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Do not park on the highway or block private driveways – vehicles left on public roadways may be towed (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Public transport directly to the farm is minimal. Regional buses run to nearby towns (Wellsford, Whangārei) but none go into Kaiwaka. For big events, organizers run dedicated shuttle coaches from key pickup points (past buses have connected Mangawhai Village, Wellsford and Whangārei to the farm) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, a paid shuttle has run from Mangawhai Heads (~$30 one-way) (www.ticketfairy.com ). These shuttles require advance tickets. Otherwise the best bet is to drive. Taxi or rideshare can drop off at the farm gate, but services are scarce in rural Northland, especially late at night (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cell coverage around Kaiwaka can be weak, so if you arrange lifts or shuttle rides, do so well before travel.
Inside the Venue
Inside 420 Settlement Rd, you’ll find a full-service festival environment. Entry gates check your QR-code ticket and ID (tickets are usually issued in the buyer’s name, so be prepared to show photo ID) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Security will inspect bags and enforce event rules – for instance, Northern Bass strictly prohibited any alcohol or glass to be brought in, even from cars (www.ticketfairy.com ). Once inside, the atmosphere is casual and communal: people of all backgrounds enjoying music together. Expect a variety of food stalls and trucks – offering everything from burgers, barbecue and churros to Asian street food and vegetarian/vegan fare (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There will also be a small “camp store” or market selling water, snacks and festival essentials like sunscreen (www.ticketfairy.com ). Multiple beer and liquor bars are set up (since personal alcohol isn’t allowed) – these accept cash/cards. Convenient amenities are provided: dozens of portable toilets are spread around the campground and stage areas (with some upgraded flushing units in VIP/camping zones) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For campers, free hot shower units are often available (www.ticketfairy.com ). First aid and lost-and-found tents are usually staffed too. Wi-Fi is generally not provided, and phone signal can drop; many visitors carry power banks, and organizers often set up charging stations (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no formal coat-check – you’ll carry any valuables. Overall, plan on a no-frills festival site (portable toilets, food trucks, merchandise stands) with a lively party crowd under open skies (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Nearby Amenities
The immediate Kaiwaka village is small. On Settlement Road itself you’ll find a Four Square supermarket/dairy (a New Zealand convenience grocer) and a bottle store, plus a couple of takeout cafes and the old-school Kaiwaka Hotel pub (www.ticketfairy.com ). These can cover last-minute snacks, hardware/fuel and basic meals. However, for a broader range of services head about 10–15 minutes south to Mangawhai Heads. Mangawhai village boasts numerous restaurants, cafés, takeaways and bars along its harbourfront (www.ticketfairy.com ) – everything from fish’n’chips and pizza to seafood bistros, patisseries and bars. It also has bakeries (for breakfast snacks) and grocery shops. Accommodations are likewise centered in Mangawhai (motels, holiday parks and private rentals) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need petrol or quick meals en route, note that Waipu (to the south) and Wellsford (on SH1) have petrol stations and fast-food outlets as well. Because Kaiwaka has very limited lodging, many visitors stay in Mangawhai or even drive in from Auckland or Whangārei. If you’re traveling from out of town, consider staying a night or two in nearby towns to avoid a long overnight drive. Remember to book early, as local accommodations fill up over summer and during big events (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What Makes This Venue Special
Worsfold Farm at 420 Settlement Rd stands apart because it brings a large-scale concert experience to pastoral Northland. Unlike city arenas, here the night sky and farmland horizon are part of the show (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The festival’s Jungle-themed main stage and creative décor are legendary in the NZ scene, giving the event a carnival feel. Attendees rave about the free spirit – New Year’s countdowns with DJ drops “jungle style,” communal camping, and a “grassroots” vibe that city festivals can’t replicate. Organizers go to great lengths for fans: even after a huge downpour in 2023 they laid down astroturf walkways over the mud so people could move around (www.ticketfairy.com ). Northern Bass has run for over a decade straight (making it one of the longest-running music fests in NZ) (www.ticketfairy.com ), helping launch local DJs and consistently bringing international talent. Economically, the festival is a boon to the region – drawing thousands (it was once around 10,000) and injecting millions into the local economy. As one promoter quipped, it’s like a “$5 million party” for Northland each year (www.ticketfairy.com ). In summary, 420 Settlement Rd’s charm comes from blending idyllic rural beauty with high-energy live music – a unique, transformative experience for both artists and audiences (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive prepared. Wear sturdy footwear (boots or sneakers) – the grounds are grass/mud at a farm. Sunscreen, a hat and light layers are wise for daytime sun, plus warmer clothes for chilly nights. Bring ear plugs to protect your hearing in front of loud speakers. Since events are often R18, bring valid photo ID. Bags are searched: typically small daypacks are allowed but large or prohibited items (outside alcohol, glass, weapons, etc.) are not. You may carry a sealed empty water bottle for refills (hydration stations are usually provided), but check the specific festival rules. There are no strict dress codes – festival costume or casual wear both work – but weather-appropriate comfort is key. www.ticketfairy.com ). ATMs are not on-site – bring enough cash for food/drinks/souvenirs, as vendors may or may not take cards. It’s smart to fetch any last cash or supplies in Kaiwaka or Mangawhai beforehand. www.ticketfairy.com ). Arrive early to find a good campsite or standing spot. Keep track of meeting points in case of losing friends (the open layout can get disorienting). Finally, respect the local environment: use garbage bins, minimize noise when leaving late-night, and obey all staff instructions. By preparing well, you’ll enjoy 420 Settlement Rd’s special festival atmosphere to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is located at 420 Settlement Road?
420 Settlement Road is the address of Worsfold Farm, a private rural property in Kaiwaka (Kaipara District, Northland) that doubles as a seasonal festival venue. Most famously, it hosts the Northern Bass music festival each New Year’s (www.ticketfairy.com ) (theguide.live ).
Is there a seating or stage setup?
No fixed seating is installed. The venue is an open farmland, so audiences stand or sit on the grass. Multiple outdoor stages are erected (usually one main stage plus side stages). It’s all general admission – people can roam freely on the lawn. (VIP upgrades may include raised platforms, but otherwise everyone shares the space) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How can I get tickets for the events at 420 Settlement Road?
Tickets (e.g. for Northern Bass) are sold online through the festival’s official channels and authorized sellers (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no regular box office at the farm, so buy in advance. Look for early-bird and pre-sale announcements on the promoter’s site or social media. Prices vary by tier – recent multi-day festival passes have been a few hundred NZD (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
When do tickets usually go on sale and sell out?
For big events like Northern Bass, tickets typically go on sale in waves months before the event (early-bird, presale, general sale). Popular events can sell out quickly, often before regular sale begins, so it’s wise to register interest early. The event organizers announce all sale dates via their newsletter and social media, so signing up or following them is recommended. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are there cheaper tickets for students or ages?
There are no special student or youth discounts mentioned—only the tiered pricing (early-bird, general, VIP, etc). Importantly, events at this venue (like Northern Bass) are strictly for ages 18 and over, so any ticket buyer must be an adult (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there general parking available at 420 Settlement Road?
Yes. For festivals, the farm’s fields are used as parking lots. Parking is often free or by donation once onsite. Expect grass/dirt parking (flat fields), which can get very muddy after rain (www.ticketfairy.com ). Follow festival parking signs and attendants. Do not park on the highway or nearby driveways, as improperly parked cars may be towed (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What public transport serves the venue?
There’s no regular public transport to the farm. The closest towns (Kaiwaka/Wellsford/Mangawhai) have some bus service, but you’d still need a car from there. For events, organizers usually run charter shuttles from places like Mangawhai, Whangārei or Auckland. You must pre-book these. Otherwise, driving is by far the easiest option (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are there Uber or taxi services to Worsfold Farm?
Not reliably. Kaiwaka is quite remote with few taxis. Some local companies operate festival shuttles or private hires (for example, Mangawhai Taxis has offered shuttle vans at ~NZ$35 per person) (mangawhaitaxis.com ). You’ll often be better off organizing a group van in advance or using the event’s official shuttle services. Note that rideshare apps are generally scarce in this area, especially at night (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is 420 Settlement Road an indoor venue?
No – it’s entirely outdoors. Think open-air fields and stages. Most of the terrain is grass and dirt. (Some temporary tents or structures may be set up for bars and stages during events, but there are no indoor buildings for the audience.)
Are seats or viewing platforms provided?
No fixed seats are provided. Attendees bring their own portable chairs or sit/stand on the lawn. The only elevated platform is the VIP lounge section (e.g. Jungle Lounge) sold as a ticket upgrade. Other than that, viewing is at ground level on the grass (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What items are not allowed at the venue?
Rules vary by event, but generally no dangerous items or outsider provisions. Northern Bass, for example, prohibited any outside alcohol or glass inside (even in carparks) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bags are searched, so avoid bringing coolers, illegal substances or weapons. Other common bans: fireworks, weapons, pets (except service animals), stepladders or large signage. Check the organizer’s website for a full prohibited-items list. Sunscreen, small snacks and sealed water bottles (to refill) are usually okay.
Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Because it’s a farm setting, accessibility is limited. The ground is mostly grass, dirt and sometimes uneven; accessible tracks or ramps are minimal. There may be temporary accessible toilets if required, but expect that moving around can be challenging in a wheelchair. If you have mobility needs, contact the event organizers ahead of time. Some events may offer viewing areas or assistance, but generally plan for minimal facilities.
What food and drinks are available inside?
There are usually dozens of food trucks and stalls offering a wide variety: barbecue, burgers, pizzas, Asian cuisine, sweets, and vegetarian/vegan options (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bars sell beer, cocktails and soft drinks. Additionally, a small on-site convenience stall often sells water, snacks and basic camping supplies. The key point is that local vendors handle all food and drink; outside catering isn’t needed (and outside alcohol is prohibited).
Are there ATMs or cash machines on site?
Generally no. 420 Settlement Rd events are remote, so ATMs are unlikely inside. Bring enough cash for vendors (though some may accept cards). You can withdraw cash in Kaiwaka or Mangawhai before arriving. Carrying small bills is wise for quick purchases.
What is the capacity of 420 Settlement Rd?
As an open field, its “capacity” depends on the event. For Northern Bass 2025, organizers capped attendance at about 6,000 people (www.ticketfairy.com ). In prior years, numbers reached roughly 10,000. The farm itself could physically hold more if needed, but safety and comfort considerations are factored into event caps.
Can children attend events at 420 Settlement Rd?
That depends on the specific event. Northern Bass is strictly 18+ with ID checks (www.ticketfairy.com ), so no minors are allowed. Other gatherings might be family-friendly, but you’d need to check that event’s policy. In general, the venue itself doesn’t offer separate children’s facilities (camping is open and festival A/V is loud), so younger kids might not be very comfortable.
What's the nearest airport to 420 Settlement Rd?
The closest airport is Whangārei (WRE) about an hour north. Kerikeri (KKE) is also about 90 minutes north. However, most travelers fly into Auckland Airport since it has more flights; from Auckland it’s roughly a 1–1.5 hour drive via State Highway 1 to Kaiwaka. If you land in Auckland, consider renting a car or arranging a shuttle for the last leg.
What are the weather and rain policies?
Since events are outdoors, they are typically rain-or-shine. Organizers plan for weather (for example, adding extra drainage or walkways after wet seasons) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Expect muddy conditions if it rains. There are usually no refunds for rain, so come prepared. Sunny weather means bringing sun protection and staying hydrated as shade is limited.
Are pets allowed at the venue?
Typically not. 420 Settlement Rd is a private farm, and festival events usually prohibit pets (except service animals) for safety and hygiene. Always check the specific event rules, but expect that you cannot bring dogs or other pets.
Is there on-site emergency or first-aid services?
Yes. Large events at Worsfold Farm typically include a staffed first-aid tent or medical station. If you need help, you can find them near the main stage or information area. If serious assistance is needed, remember that ambulances can access the venue via Settlement Road (so stay on official paths).
Where is the nearest accommodation?
Accommodation in Kaiwaka itself is very limited (a couple of motels and holiday parks). The nearest broader choices are in Mangawhai (about 10 km/15 min away) or Waipu/Wellsford. Mangawhai offers many motels, holiday parks with cabins, B&Bs and rentals. It’s wise to book early in summer, since demand spikes during events at 420 Settlement Rd (www.ticketfairy.com ).
