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Around a dozen different bands, singers and DJs will take to the stage for Auckland’s biggest environmental awareness music festival on Saturday, February 20.
Highlights will include the Knights of the Dub Table collective, X-Factor rocker Brendon Thomas and the eclectic Levi Lights on Project, plus many others, including Sam Bartells, Mema Wilda, The Rvmes and Big Tasty Band.
The Okura Forest Festival runs from 11am to 11pm at Okura Park (entry off East Coast Road) and includes up to 15 expert environmental workshops, as well as art, craft and information stalls, and activities for kids. There is also a wide range of food and drink available, with the emphasis on healthy, vegan and, where possible, organic options.
The Forest Festival was started seven years ago as a fundraiser for the Friends of Okura Bush and is run entirely by volunteers. This year it has received a $10,000 funding boost from Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, which festival coordinator Chris Bettany says will help to pay performers.
“In previous years, the bands donated their performance in return for accommodation and food, but with Covid, we are paying them,” she says.
Participating environmental groups include Forest & Bird, Pest Free Whangaparaoa, Zero Waste Hibiscus and Bays, Restoration Hibiscus and Bays, Whitebait Connection, Repair Café, Auckland Council, DOC, Protecting Marine Reserves, Waste Solutions and Kauri Dieback experts.
Entry costs from $25, or $5 for under 12s, though extra donations are encouraged – for more information and tickets, search for Okura Forest Festival at eventbrite.co.nz
