Salmon and Wine
One of Twizel's most popular events, the Salmon and Wine Festival. Pictured here in 2017.
What's on
Twizel Native Trail
We've teamed up with some creative locals to create a mosaic critter trail in the Market Place. Download this map and see if you can find all 20 creatures native to Te Manahuna!
Hydro Thunder Series
10 & 11 January
Twizel, we’re back!
The Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Series and Australian AE Baker Cup returns to Lake Ruataniwha, Twizel on 10-11 January 2026, right in the heart of summer.
It’s the perfect chance for a day trip or a full weekend away at one of New Zealand’s most stunning lakes, where you’ll witness some of the fastest GP Hydroplanes on the planet unleash their power.
Sunshine, speed, and some serious horsepower!
Brought to you by the NZGP Hydro Thunder team In association with the New Brighton Powerboat Club racing is based at the Meridian Rowing Club.
Ticket sales at the gate:
Adults: 1 Day Pass $25
Adults: 2 Day Pass $45
Kids: Under 12 Free
Twizel Salmon & Wine Festival
Saturday, 28 February
DELICIOUS WINE, EXQUISITE FOOD AND ALL THINGS SALMON RIGHT HERE ON THE SHORES OF LAKE RUATANIWHA
2026 marks the 20th Twizel Salmon & Wine Festival and it is bigger & better than ever!
The festival will be held on stunning Lake Ruataniwha at the Meridian Rowing Centre, giving patrons a world-class view while they enjoy their day in the Twizel sun.
From delicious local salmon and tasty foods, boutique wines and craft beers, to lively bands with a bouncy castle & face painting for the kids. There’s something to entertain everyone at the Twizel Salmon & Wine Festival.
Tickets still available here.
Swim Ruataniwha
14 March
Meridian Swim Ruataniwha is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run community event at Lake Ruataniwha in Twizel on 14th March 2026.
With 500m, 1500m, and 3800m open-water swims, it’s a chance to experience pristine alpine waters while supporting the community.
Proceeds are reinvested locally into water-based activities and water safety initiatives in the region.
Find out more here!
Parents Hub
Whether you need support, or something to keep your little ones busy, there's no shortage of things for parents in Twizel.
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Jitterbugs
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Little Movers Playgroup
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Arowhenua Whānau Services
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Little Lattes coffee group
Spirited Women 2026
Friday 20 - Sunday 22 February 2026
Welcome to the Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race, where women team up, train and have an absolute blast of an adventure together, side by side all the way.
Teams of four women choose from a short, medium or long-course adventure. Travelling together in a team, they must navigate around a secret course by foot, mountain bike, and kayak, completing a few surprise mystery activities along the way. Stable tandem sit-on kayaks are provided for all teams, and all levels of fitness and experience are welcome.
The Spirited Women is far more than creating an unforgettable event experience shared among girlfriends; it’s about women making time for themselves and prioritizing their health and fitness. For many participants, the journey to the event is the most cherished part. Regularly getting together as a team to train, learn new skills, and support one another to push their boundaries. The Spirited Women event strengthens bonds and relationships, bringing family, friends, and work colleagues together for a weekend of unadulterated fun.
Arts on Tour - Mr Fungus
19 April 2026
“New Zealand’s Loudest Mime” Mr Fungus is on tour across Aotearoa, with silly show that will amuse and delight kids of all ages.
Featuring visual and verbal comedy, juggling and mime, with scrumptious and catchy backing soundtracks, Mr Fungus will bring the silliness and fun to your town.
Thrillingly ridiculous and a seasoned pro, Mr Fungus has played to packed theatres and festival venues throughout Europe and Australasia, in a career spanning four decades.
Big Bike Night Twizel
8 May 2026
A desire to share his love of bikes and to support the community set a Taupō local in 2014 on the path from weekend bike enthusiast to creating one of Australasia’s best-loved short film festivals.
And for the first time, the Big Bike Night will be coming to Twizel in 2026. Keep checking in for more details closer to the time!
Meridian Rowing Centre Timetable
South Island Rowing Inc. are a voluntary organisation that operates and maintains the Meridian Rowing Centre on the shores of Lake Ruataniwha.
Every year they host a number of rowing regattas, private events and the SI Canoe Sprint Championships.