The Waipu Highland Games are a full day of pipe bands, Highland dancing, heavyweight events and tug o war at Caledonian Park, Waipu, on 31 December 2026. Run by the Waipu Caledonian Society for more than 150 years, they are one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the southern hemisphere. Camping on the school field costs $10 per person per night, cash only.
On this page
Key facts
- When
- 31 December 2026, from the morning street march
- Where
- Caledonian Park, Waipu, Northland
- Highlights
- Street march, massed bands at 12.25 pm, Highland dancing, heavyweights, tug o war, kids' races
- Camping
- Waipu Primary School field, $10 per person per night, cash only
- Membership
- $10 per person: parking in the park, members' tent near the main arena
- Disabled parking
- Full for 2026
- From Auckland
- About 1 hour 40 minutes' drive (estimate)
What it is
Waipu, a small town on the Northland coast, was settled by Scottish families in the 1850s, and the town still celebrates that heritage every New Year. The Waipu Highland Games have been run by the Waipu Caledonian Society for more than 150 years, making them one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the southern hemisphere. Each year they attract hundreds of top pipers, drummers, dancers and heavyweight athletes and thousands of spectators, and all Games Day proceeds go back into the local community.
The organisers’ welcome is “Cead Mile Failte”: one hundred thousand welcomes.
What to expect
The day starts with a street march and grand entry of bands and clans, followed by the official salute. Highlights on the programme:
- From 9.30 am: Highland and national dancing on Stage 1
- 10 am: kids’ running races on the track, and tug o war registration
- 12.10 pm: the Chief’s welcome in the main arena
- 12.25 pm: massed pipe bands, the massed Highland Fling, and the whole crowd singing Flower of Scotland
- From 1 pm: competitions continue, including heavyweight events and tug o war
New for 2026 are a Scottish pie eating competition, the Highland Ute Pull and Ping Pong Payday, with a $1000 prize. Plan to stay most of the day to see the massed bands and a good range of events.
Who it suits
Families, anyone with Scottish roots, and visitors curious about small-town New Zealand traditions. Whether you want to compete or just have fun, there are events for all ages and skill levels.
Tickets and membership
Check the official site for gate entry. You can also become a Waipu Caledonian Society member for $10 per person, which gives you car parking in the park on Games Day, entry to the members’ and VIP tent near the main arena, and voting rights.
Getting there
Waipu is just off SH1 between Auckland and Whangārei. Estimated drive times:
- Auckland: about 120 km and 1 hour 40 minutes
- Whangārei: about 40 km and 30 minutes
Traffic on SH1 north of Auckland is heavy over the New Year holidays, so leave early. The disabled car parks are full for 2026.
Where to stay
The Waipu Primary School field becomes a campground over New Year:
- Cost: $10 per person per night. There is no EFTPOS on site; the nearest ATM is in town at McLeans Café.
- Open: from noon on 30 December to noon on 1 January. Early arrival is by agreement.
- Gate: closed every night from 10 pm to 7 am.
- Facilities: toilets open 24/7, one shower and a kitchen (6 to 9 am and 5 to 8 pm), water taps, free recycling and the school swimming pool. There is no power.
- Booking: with the Waipu Caledonian Society.
Security is at your own risk, so keep valuables with you or locked in your car. Otherwise, look at Waipu Cove, Langs Beach or Whangārei, and book early.
Make a trip of it
Waipu is a good first stop on a Northland road trip. Carry on north to the Bay of Islands, or see our freedom camping guide if you are in a campervan.
FAQ
When are the massed bands?
Do I have to be Scottish?
Can I camp at the Highland Games?
Is there disabled parking?
What is new this year?
What is the Helen McGregor Memorial?
Sources
Last checked 11 November 2026 against the organiser's own pages
