About Outfield Festival
Outfield Festival is a one‐day outdoor music and arts festival set in the rolling vineyards and coastal countryside of Te Awanga, Hawke’s Bay. It launched in February 2020 (www.muzic.nz ) (www.nzherald.co.nz ) and has quickly become Hawke’s Bay’s own summer festival. The site is a private farm at 35 Gordon Road (“Te Awanga Downs”), nestled by orchards and ocean views (www.muzic.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Organizers describe it as a “world class independent festival with a distinctive local vibe” (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) that celebrates NZ creativity, food and wine as much as music. In fact, local media noted this festival will “showcase music but local food and art as well” for the community (www.nzherald.co.nz ). It is fully family‐friendly (kids 12 & under enter free with a guardian (www.eventfinda.co.nz )) and by 2024 was a finalist for New Zealand’s Music Event of the Year (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). The festival prides itself on sustainability and local culture, so you’ll find a relaxed Kiwi atmosphere, craft beers, Hawke’s Bay wines and artisan foods alongside the music.
Events and Programming
Outfield is an annual summer event (usually Jan/Feb) featuring a mix of genres. In a single long day of music it often spans hip-hop, rock, electronic and pop, with both New Zealand and international acts. For example, the 2020 lineup included soul-rapper Ladi6, funk band Leisure and Australian rockers Great Gable (www.muzic.nz ) (13thfloor.co.nz ). The 2021 festival featured iconic NZ bands like The Phoenix Foundation with singer Nadia Reid, and that year the organizers even added a third stage to accommodate more artists (www.muzic.nz ). By 2023, Outfield’s main stage was headlined by P-Money, the Aussie NZ-bound band Coterie, Wellington’s Rhombus and Auckland rapper JessB, among 35+ acts (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). The event typically runs midday through late evening (e.g. 1pm–1am in 2023 (www.eventfinda.co.nz )) with multiple stages. Its program is less about big commercial stages and more about party vibes and local flair: reviewers say you can “unwind in nature” on the grassy hills while dancing to the lineup (concreteplayground.com ). Outfield also heavily involves local arts and family fun – recent writeups note the site is turned into a “playground of delights for the young and young at heart”, with kid-friendly activities alongside live music (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Food stalls and craft drinks complement every performance, creating a village-like atmosphere rather than a formal arena. Although the festival is relatively new, it’s now regarded as Hawke’s Bay’s signature boutique music event, shining a spotlight on both local talent and national acts in a uniquely Kiwi setting.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold online through Outfield’s official channels (the Flicket platform on the festival website). They go on sale in waves well ahead of the event, with early-bird prices often selling out fast. For example, a 2024 “first innings” adult ticket was about NZ$129 (+ fees), rising to ~NZ$139 in the second wave (www.ticketfairy.com ). Group deals are common: the festival often offers a “Dream Team” pack (5 tickets for the price of 4) and group discounts (e.g. buy 4 tickets, get $10 off each) (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Youth (13–17) tickets sell for a reduced rate (around $79) but must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). Children 12 and under attend free with an adult (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Past patterns show the final tickets may be available at the gate on event day (2020 had a last-minute door sale for ~$110 (www.ticketfairy.com )), but venues like this often sell out in advance. It’s safest to book tickets online early, and always carry a photo ID that matches the name on the ticket (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). Outfield’s terms make IDs mandatory at entry (NZ driver’s licences, passports or Kiwi Access cards are accepted) (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ), so double-check your details when booking. Refunds are generally not offered, and tickets sold second-hand must use the official resale system. In short: buy through the official site when tickets are announced, grab group deals if you can, and expect prices in the low hundreds (with kids free) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Outfield “venue” is essentially a wide open farm field – there are no fixed seats or grandstands. The festival footprint is grassy fields and gentle hills, where multiple stages are set up under open sky. All viewing areas are general admission, so attendees stand or sit where they like. Many people bring small foldable chairs or picnic blankets to lounge on the grass. If you want the closest view, you’ll need to stake out a spot near the stage early in the day. Others prefer to relax on a slope or at the back, where you can still see the stage and enjoy the landscape of vines and ocean. The climate is sunny, so position matters (early afternoon sun may be behind certain stages). In any case, there is no formally reserved or VIP seating by name – everyone mixes freely. Acoustics depend on proximity to the PA stacks; if you are far off-stage you’ll mainly hear the sound bounced across the field. In short, think of it as an open picnic concert: find your own spot on the lawn, bring a chair or mat if you wish, and get ready to move within the crowd as each act performs. (Note: there is typically a designated area near the soundboard for those sensitive to volume.)
Getting There and Parking
Outfield Festival is located in rural Te Awanga (south of Napier) at 35 Gordon Road, Hastings. To reach it by car, travel down State Highway 2 along the Cape Coast and watch for signs to Te Awanga. Once off the highway, follow Caroline Bay Road or Te Awanga Road to Gordon Road, and the festival entrance will be clearly signposted. The site is about 20 km from Napier city centre and roughly 10–12 km south of Hastings town. Because it’s in the country, public transportation is very limited. (There is no direct bus or train stop at the venue.) If you rely on public transit, a common approach is to take the train or bus to Napier or Hastings and then taxi or shuttle the rest of the way. Parking: The festival runs in open fields with limited space, so on-site car parking is kept to a minimum (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). Organizers explicitly note “bus & carpooling preferred” and warn of scarce parking (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). If you do drive, expect unsealed farm car parks; arrive early (before noon) on event day to secure a spot. Parking is generally free or donation-based, but spaces fill quickly. It’s wise to carpool with as many people as possible. Shuttles: Recent editions have offered coach shuttles from Napier, Hastings and nearby towns. For example, a return bus from Napier (via Taradale) was sold for about $20 in 2020 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Camping ticket holders also often get a free campground shuttle (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Check the festival website for details on shuttle pickup points and times. Drop-off/ride-share: Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are allowed at the Gordon Road entrance. After the show, carpool or rideshare pickup can be busy on the minor roads, so be patient and arrange a meeting spot. (Local taxis and Uber operate in Napier/Hastings but phone booking is recommended.) Overall, plan for slow-moving traffic near the farm, and allow extra travel time in and out of the venue.
Inside the Venue
As you enter Outfield Festival, expect festival-style procedures. Security staff will check tickets and perform bag searches at the gate. Be prepared to show photo ID (NZ licence or passport), since the event is fully licensed for alcohol (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). The entry area (and any temporary structures) is basic – there is no permanent foyer or hall. Once inside, the site opens up into wide lawns. Remember to carry your essentials: sunscreen, hat, and a refillable water bottle (water stations or free taps are usually provided by the festival). Outfield strongly promotes sustainability: organizers mention eco-friendly practices and encourage recycling (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), so you’ll see plenty of recycling bins and possibly refill stations to avoid single-use plastic. You may not want to use your phone for streaming (cell service can be spotty out there), but you can stay connected enough to coordinate with friends. Facilities: Portable toilets are placed throughout the site, including accessible units. These are mostly basic but kept reasonably clean throughout the day. (Venue maps will show their locations.) Waste stations for recycling and compost are common. There is no coat-check service, so keep valuables on you or in a small bag; large valuables should stay locked in your car if possible. The atmosphere inside is casual: you’ll find crowds milling between stages, art installations and vendor stalls. Food trucks line a “village” area selling local cuisine and drinks. Merchandise booths may offer band tees and festival gear. Mobile bartenders sell craft beer and regional wines. Because it’s outdoors, there are no indoor lounges – everything is in the open air. Night-time temperatures can drop, so pack a light jacket. If you have mobility needs, know that the terrain is mostly grass; staff can point you to the accessible viewing areas. In short, treat it like a great big outdoor picnic with events – expect IDs at the gate, bring your own picnic comfort items, and settle in for an open-air celebration under the sky.
Nearby Amenities
Although Outfield’s site is rural, a range of amenities are within driving distance. In Te Awanga itself you’ll find a few cafes and estates. Notably, Elephant Hill Winery and Restaurant (right on the roadside) is a popular spot for pre-festival meals and wine tastings. Another venue is Clearview Estate’s restaurant (a short drive up Te Awanga Road), known for farm-to-table dining with ocean views. (These restaurants can be busy in summer – reservations are recommended.) Camping accommodations (cabins or ranches) are sprinkled through Te Awanga and nearby Maraetotara. However, most attendees stay in Napier or Hastings, as those cities have full hotel and motel options. Napier (20 km north) has dozens of hotels, motels and Airbnbs, especially around the Art Deco center and waterfront (www.ticketfairy.com ). Hastings (15 km north) also offers hotel chains, boutique lodges and holiday parks. Early arrival is wise: many festivalgoers book local lodgings well in advance of the event. Dining and nightlife: If you arrive night before, dine at Napier’s Marine Parade or Hastings’ Town Centre where cafes and pubs abound. On festival day you might grab breakfast in Hastings (the local farmers’ market on Saturday mornings is a treat) or quick takeaway en route. Late-night dining after the festival is limited nearby, so plan accordingly. Transport: If you need a ride, list local taxi companies in Napier/Hastings. Rideshare coverage is improving in the region but still unpredictable out in Te Awanga – it’s safer to arrange a car service or designate a sober driver. National bus lines (InterCity) go from the North Island major cities to Napier/Hastings, then taxi the final stretch. The festival organizers often provide event buses from major hubs and camping grounds, which can be the easiest way to ensure safe travel.
What Makes This Venue Special
Outfield’s charm comes from its unique setting and community spirit. Unlike a city stadium or standard concert hall, this festival takes place on a sunny farm by the sea. You’re literally dancing among orchards and pasture: reviewers note it is “smack bang in the country’s ‘fruit bowl’” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ), meaning the backdrop is farmland and vineyards, not city skyline. That rural scenery makes for a relaxed outdoor vibe – you’ll want sunglasses, a sunhat, and perhaps even shoes off in the grass. The site is hugged by hills, so some acts may play on a natural slope, giving an amphitheatre feel. Another special feature is the emphasis on local culture: booths by Hawke’s Bay artisans, stalls of regional wine and cider, and even collaborations with local arts groups (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (concreteplayground.com ). This is a festival where locals gather with visiting fans to celebrate the region. Organizers and attendees often speak of Outfield as a “shared love” of music and Kiwi creativity (www.hawkesbaynz.com ). Anecdotally, some festival moments become regional lore – like an impromptu jam session with a famous musician under the hawthorn trees. Although young, Outfield has already hosted beloved acts like Ladi6, Phoenix Foundation and more (www.muzic.nz ) (www.muzic.nz ), creating memorable evenings for Hawke’s Bay residents. Its open layout and family amenities (including arts projects and a separate family camping zone) give it a cooperative, down-to-earth feel – artist and audience pride feeding into local culture. In summary, what makes Outfield special is not a flashy stage or massive stadium, but the combination of Hawke’s Bay sunshine, rolling vineyard hills, great local food & wine, music diversity and a friendly, family-friendly community focus (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (concreteplayground.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The ground is mostly flat grass, which makes the main areas relatively accessible, but conditions depend on the weather (the field can get muddy if damp). The festival usually provides accessible toilets and a viewing area near the stage. Wheelchair users should email the organizer in advance, but in good weather many areas are manageable with ramps and temporary matting. What to Bring/Not Bring: Dress for summer: sunhats, sunscreen and a rain jacket (in case of an afternoon shower). Comfortable shoes or sandals are a must for walking in grass. Since it’s an outdoor event, a light jacket is wise for evening, and ear protection helps for little ones. You may bring a small backpack and personal snacks, but be aware festival rules prohibit outside glass, fireworks, pets and any illegal substances. (Only service animals are allowed.) Don’t pack valuables in an unlocked bag; small fanny-packs or secure carry-ons are best. If you have medication or baby supplies, keep them clearly labeled. Meals and Drinks: There are numerous food trucks and bars inside, offering everything from gourmet food trucks to local seafood and family-friendly fairground food. Craft breweries and local wineries have stalls, so it’s a great chance to try regional products. Cash is handy (some vendors may not take cards, even though EFTPOS is common). Water refill stations are typically provided, so bring a reusable bottle. Age Restrictions: This is an all-ages event, but under-18s must be accompanied by an adult (over 30) at all times (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). Wear your wristband (adults may wear one on behalf of each child). The festival is fully licensed, so beverage sales stop by late evening. Arrival Tips: Aim to arrive before the first set if possible, to avoid queues and choose a good viewing spot. There may be no re-entry once you leave the field. Charge your phone beforehand – mobile coverage is patchy on the site. Keep an eye on the weather forecast: Hawke’s Bay can be sunny or have quick showers in summer. Finally, enjoy the laid-back vibe! Outfield prides itself on safety and friendliness. Look out for volunteer medics if needed, keep your group together, and download any festival app or schedule in advance so you don’t miss favorite acts. With these tips, you can focus on enjoying the music, food and arts that make Outfield Festival a one-of-a-kind experience in Hawke’s Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for Outfield Festival?
Tickets are sold online through Outfield’s official website (via the Flicket platform). Sales typically begin months in advance of the event. Watch the festival’s announcements for exact sale dates. Do not buy from unofficial sources. After the initial sales waves (early bird, first wave, etc.), only a limited quantity of tickets – if any – may be offered later or at the gate.
What are the ticket prices and age categories?
Ticket prices vary by year and sales phase, but expect around NZ$120–140 for a general adult ticket. Youth tickets (ages 13–17) are sold at a reduced rate (past events had youth fares around $79), and children 12 & under generally attend free with an adult. Fees may apply on top of the base price. Festival organizers usually offer tiered pricing (earlybird, then a higher second wave), so earlier purchase is cheaper.
Are there discounts for groups or families?
Yes, Outfield often runs group deals. For example, past festivals have offered “Dream Team” packs (5 tickets for the price of 4) and discounts when buying four or more tickets together. Keep an eye on early announcements as these offers sometimes sell out quickly. Also, family camping packages are available, which bundle multiple attendee tickets in family-friendly campsites. Check the official communication for any special bundle or promo code.
Can I buy tickets at the door on the day of the festival?
Possibly, but do not count on it. Outfield is popular and often sells most tickets in advance. In earlier years, a small number of tickets were sold at the gate if any remained (for example, a door sale was offered at a set price in 2020). For 2023 and 2024, organizers warned early presentations that tickets would likely sell out. If the event isn’t fully booked, limited tickets might be sold on arrival, but they may be more expensive or not available at all. To ensure entry, it’s best to secure tickets beforehand.
What is the exact location of Outfield Festival?
The festival is held at Te Awanga Downs, address 35 Gordon Road, Te Awanga, Hastings, Hawke’s Bay. It’s in rural Te Awanga near Cape Coast. The easiest access is via State Highway 2: take Te Awanga Road exit toward the coast, then follow Gordon Road through farmland. Festival signage near the winery will guide you to the parking/entry area. Use Napier or Hastings as reference points on your GPS; from Napier it’s ~20 minutes south, and from Hastings ~15 minutes south.
What parking options are available and are there costs?
Offfield Festival provides limited parking on grassy fields near the site. Car parking is usually free (or donation-based) but can fill up early due to high demand. Organizers emphasize that parking is limited, so carpooling or shuttles are strongly encouraged (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). If you drive in, arrive early in the day. Overflow parking may be available at nearby farms, but it’s first-come. Usually no advance reservation for cars is needed; you just follow traffic attendants’ directions. Note: some festival shuttles are provided as paid coach trips from Napier/Hastings to avoid parking congestion.
Is there a bus or public transport service for the festival?
There is no regular public bus route directly to the festival site. However, Outfield often arranges coach shuttles on concert day. In past years, return buses were sold from Napier and Hastings (for example a $20 return shuttle from Napier in 2020 (www.ticketfairy.com )). Camping ticket holders also receive a free shuttle from the campgrounds to the festival (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Check the festival info page when it’s live for exact routes and tickets for these shuttles. If you rely on public transit, your best bet is to get to Napier or Hastings and taxi/Uber from there.
Where do I get dropped off or picked up by taxi/Uber?
Taxis and rideshare vehicles can drop off and pick up festival-goers at the Gordon Road entrance. Festival staff will direct you to the main entry lane. After the event, it may take some time for your ride to reach you due to traffic – festival security will guide drivers and pedestrians to safe loading zones. It’s best to agree on a meet-up spot in advance or use the festival’s designated pickups (often just off the main road). Remember that coverage for Uber/Taxi may be sparse deep in the countryside, so plan ahead.
What camping options are available at Outfield Festival?
Outfield offers nearby camping (often just off-site, not inside the stage area). General camp sites are sold per-person for the weekend (typically one admission gives you space for a tent Friday & Saturday nights). Past pricing was around NZ$79 for a two-night pass (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is also a “powered camping” option (for campervans or tents needing electricity) which was about $99 for two people in 2024 (www.ticketfairy.com ). A separate “family camping” area is set aside where parents and children camp together (www.ticketfairy.com ). All camping pass holders get free shuttle buses to/from the festival (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note that a camping ticket does not include festival entry – you must buy both. Children and teens must camp with their guardians (no solo camping under 18) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you plan to stay the whole weekend, these passes let you sleep on site rather than commute daily.
Are seats reserved or is it general admission?
All viewing areas at Outfield are general admission. There are no assigned seats or reserved sections (aside from any special VIP package which is rare). Attendees stand, dance or sit on the grass freely. Most people bring blankets or low camping chairs to set up in the lawn. You can choose where to watch from – close to the stage for front-row energy, or back on the hillside for a view of all stages. However, keep track of your party; once you choose a spot, others may crowd around you as acts begin. Essentially, think “pick your picnic spot” rather than fixed seating.
What items are prohibited at Outfield Festival?
Common festival rules apply: no weapons, illegal drugs, fireworks or glass containers of any kind. The venue is a licensed alcohol site, so outside alcohol is forbidden. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas (not in front of stages). Pets are off-limits (except service animals). Drones and laser pointers are banned. Bags may be searched at entry, and large coolers or furniture might be turned away. Note also that most cameras are fine for photos, but professional camera gear (DSLRs with large lenses) may be restricted to media only. Always read the festival’s official terms for any item-specific bans. Staying legal also means respecting the ID rules: anyone under 18 must have a legal guardian with them (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ).
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food is generally not encouraged – one of Outfield’s highlights is the variety of food trucks and local vendors on site. Most meals and snacks can be purchased inside. If you have dietary needs or very young kids, a small sealed snack might be allowed, but full meals are better bought there. Absolutely no outside alcohol is allowed, since the event holds a liquor licence. (NZ law requires all drink sales be through the festival’s bars.) Water is usually allowed in a refillable bottle, as long as the container is empty on entry. The festival often sells tokens or vouchers for food/drink, and many vendors accept cash and cards.
What food and drink options are available at the festival?
A wide array of local cuisine and drinks is available on site. Expect food trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers, tacos and pizzas to New Zealand barbecue, seafood and sweets. Hawke’s Bay’s best breweries, cideries and wineries usually set up tasting stands, so you can sample craft beers, local wine (particularly pinot noir and lighter white wines) and hard ciders. Artisan coffee and juice bars also often appear. Recent reviewers note there’s a “feast of quality food and beverage” from local makers (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (concreteplayground.com ). Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are usually clearly marked. Prices are festival-level (somewhat higher than a regular cafe, given the location), so budgeting for multiple small meals or beers is wise. If you like Hawke’s Bay products, this is an ideal spot to try them all!
Are children allowed and what are the age restrictions?
Yes – the festival is open to all ages. Children 12 and under are free with a paying parent or guardian. Teens (13–17 years old) must purchase a youth ticket and be supervised by an adult (over 30) at all times (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.outfieldfestival.co.nz ). On entry, everyone under 18 will need to show ID for age verification, just like adults. As mentioned, there is a dedicated family camping area for parents and kids. Many families bring ear protection and blankets for the little ones. All festival rules apply equally to minors (no smoking, no outside drinks, etc.), and under-18s cannot enter alone.
What accessibility features are available for disabled visitors?
The festival takes place on grass fields, so wheelchair and mobility access can be challenging if the ground is uneven. However, organizers typically provide a limited number of accessible viewing areas near the stages and wheelchair-friendly toilets. Accessible parking spots may be reserved near the entrance for cars with valid permits. If you require assistance, it’s best to contact the festival ahead of time – they often arrange for volunteers or staff to guide disabled patrons or help navigate any muddy sections. Keep in mind that facilities are temporary, so bring whatever mobility aids you need (e.g. a broad-wheeled chair) to handle grass terrain.
Are pets allowed at Outfield Festival?
No. Pets are not permitted at the festival (neither at the concert site nor the official campgrounds). The only exception is certified service animals that assist someone with a disability (and even then the owner should bring documentation or a trainer’s note). This rule helps protect the safety and comfort of all attendees, as the event is busy, loud and on grassy terrain. If you have a pet, you will need to arrange pet-sitting or boarding while you attend Outfield.
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
Outfield is an outdoor summer event, so it’s usually “rain or shine.” If there is light rain or drizzle, performances will go on as scheduled with little change (stages have covering, and crowds generally just don plastic ponchos). The venue has open fields, so expect mud if heavy rain falls – wear boots and bring a waterproof jacket. In the rare case of severe weather (like a storm), organizers will follow safety protocols: they may delay or halt shows until conditions clear. If an event is cancelled for safety, the website and social media will announce it. Check forecasts in the week leading up and dress appropriately. In past years, Hawke’s Bay summer weather tends toward benign, sunny days, but afternoon downpours can happen, so a light raincoat is a wise addition to your kit.
