KIDZONE
Papa Takaro
Step into Kidzone, where the excitement of WOMAD comes alive in a vibrant swirl of art, music, dance, and storytelling. This year’s theme, “Underwater Daydream,” transforms Kidzone into an enchanting ocean-inspired world.
WHAT’S ON OFFER
ART ZONE
Ocean-themed Mandalas and Mer-folk Crowns Workshop
With Eco-Artist and teacher Tigerlilly Prattini, children will engage in workshops to create their very own ocean mandalas and mer-folk inspired headpieces, which they will get to take home as a festival keepsake and also to adorn! Suitable for ages 5-12.
Rock Balancing with the World of Nannos Art
Tamariki can channel the mystical powers of the ocean and join Daniel, the creative mind behind The World of Nannos Art, for a hands-on session exploring the fascinating art of rock balancing. Suitable for ages 7-12.
Rock Painting
Tamariki can create their very own ocean-inspired rock pets, a delightful keepsake to treasure the magic of the festival!
Ocean Inspired Lanterns
Let your creativity flow as Kidzone’ers transform paper lanterns into dazzling ocean creatures! From vibrant fish and jellyfish to mythical sea monsters, kids can paint, bedazzle, and bring their underwater creations to life. Once complete, these unique lanterns can be mounted on bamboo sticks, ready to light up the festival and join the magical Sunday Kids Parade.
Bubble Print Ocean Themed Masks
Craft whimsical bubble print masks with an aquatic twist! Using paper plates, paint, and a touch of dishwashing detergent, their creations can range from mermaids and sea monsters to coral reefs and ocean treasures, letting imaginations run wild!
Ocean Inspired Adornments
Create unique ocean-inspired pendants and jewellery using salt dough and food-safe food colouring.
WORD ZONE
Storyteller Sessions with Roger from Birdlife Productions.
Back by popular demand, Roger Sanders returns to Kidzone! Roger brings traditional European folk tales to life through his mesmerising storytelling, blending drama, humour, and live music. His enchanting performances promise to captivate tamariki and adults alike.
Puppet Show and Roving Performances, by Anna Bailey of Stringbean Puppets.
Splash into two delightful puppet tales from the sea!
The Mermaid’s Song
From a well-travelled suitcase comes the tale of a fisherman swept to sea, where a stormy encounter leads to love with a mermaid.
The Penguin and the Sea Monster
A heartwarming story of a little blue penguin who turns to the night sky for help when his friend is captured by a sea monster.
Meet the Moa
Meet Mighty the Moa, our time-travelling friend from the coastal bushlands! Say hello, give him a pat and feed him some snacks.
Theatre Sports
Jump into the fun with Theatre Sports Taranaki! In these interactive sessions, kids build confidence, connect with others and perform and play together. Uncovering and nurturing the little creatives and budding actors within!
M.A.D ZONE
Kids Yoga
Kids Yoga Pod brings ocean-inspired yoga to Kidzone! Tamariki can enjoy playful sessions that spark movement, connection, and calm. Check out the session names for clues about what you might be doing! Suitable for ages 5-12.
Bachata Dance Workshops
Get moving with the sunny, upbeat vibes of Latin-inspired Bachata Dance! Join Alegria Dance to learn its origins and embrace the rhythm, colour, and fun! Suitable for ages 5-12.
Silent Disco
A whimsical wonderland adorned with artful installations where children can dance joyously to festive tunes, silently grooving amidst enchanting decorations. Limited space, welcoming 30 children per session to boogie in this magical realm.
ON OFFER ALL DAY
AROUND AND ABOUT ACTIVITIES
Game Zone
Step into an outdoor wonderland where giant versions of beloved games await! Challenge a friend to an epic Connect Four match, test your finesse with oversized Pick Up Sticks, or make new pals in a colossal game of Twister.
The Wonky Cone
Cool off in Kidzone with delicious real-fruit ice cream from Wonky Cone, plus a coffee pick-me-up for the grown-ups!
Face Painting with Magical Masquerade
The super-talented Magical Masquerade face painting crew is back, and they’re ready to sprinkle their magic once again! Whatever you imagine, they’ll bring it to life. On Sunday, they’ll transform kids into magical, mythical ocean creatures as part of the “Underwater Daydream” theme.
Re:story
Ema and Tess invite kids to an imaginative journey using natural elements like wood, stones and feathers. Children take the lead, crafting their own masterpieces. Parents step back, empowering kids to be the creators of their unique tales.
KIDZ PARADE – SUNDAY
Join us for the lively WOMAD NZ Kidz Parade on Sunday, celebrating this year’s theme, “Underwater Daydream.” It’s a chance for our talented WOMAD tamariki to showcase their creative masterpieces. The parade will feature children adorned with their freshly made Art Zone gems, ocean-themed masks, jewellery, mer-folk crowns, and swinging their ocean creature lanterns. It will be an underwater daydream in motion, all led by the ethereal and magical WOMAD Jellyfish, created by artist Abby Fleur!
The parade will take place on Sunday evening between 6.15pm and 6:45pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult as they march through the festival site. The parade will assemble at the Gables stage.
Event Partners
NGĀ HO TŌPŪ Ā-REHIA
Host City Partners
TE HOA A-TĀONE
REGIONAL Partner
HE HOA Ā-ROHE
COMMUNITY Partner
HE HOA Ā-HAPORI
Programme Partners
NGĀ HOA A-HŌTAKA
MEDIA Partners
NGĀ HOA PĀPĀOHO
Event Supporters
NGĀ HOA WHIRINAKI Ā-REHIA
Produced By
NĀ TE AHUREI TOI O TARANAKI
