Featherston is a unique wee town and the gateway to the Wairarapa region. Descending the Remutaka hills, you roll into Featherston-township – a creative gem just one hour from the big smoke of Wellington.
“Feathy” as it is affectionately known is famed for its annual Booktown festival. Featherston’s transformation into New Zealand’s only official Booktown began in 2015. Inspired by the global Booktown movement (originating in Hay-on‑Wye, Wales), local leader and founding kaumātua Lincoln Gould, along with community champions like Mary and Peter Biggs and Kate Mead, visited Clunes in Victoria, Australia, to explore the concept.
Now held annually in May, the flagship Karukatea Festival spans a lively weekend – typically the second week of May – with author talks, workshops, panel discussions, storytelling sessions and street-side booksellers filling Featherston’s heritage streets.
Expect around 50+ events over three days, showcasing both New Zealand and international writers, Māori cultural collaborations, children’s programming and informal gatherings in cosy bookshops and cafés.
Visiting during May, you’ll wander among literary stalls, partake in creative workshops, enjoy readings in repurposed historic venues, and soak in the warm, bookish buzz in Featherston’s scenic and welcoming setting.
Learn more about what’s happening in Featherston: