Four of the best family festivals

It's all about music in the sun this summer with a choice of festivals. Photo / Glenn Jeffrey

1. Soundsplash

January 8-10.
Wainui Reserve, Raglan

If you can't wait until February, head to Raglan for the multi-genre, multimedia Soundsplash, right next to the beach. Lots of local artists, as relaxed as you'd expect from this surfy town with The Black Seeds, State of Mind, Tiki Taane, and Trinity Roots.

2. Womad

March 18-20
Bowl of Brooklands, New Plymouth

The biggest and splashiest of them all, Womad has acts from all around the world in a beaut, grassy park. With stories to tell and music to share, and fantastic food stalls, something for everyone in the family. Acts this year include St Germain, De La Soul, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and John Grant.

3. ACL

March 19
Western Springs, Auckland

New kid on the block, inspired by Austin City Limits, ACL promises a range of genres, terrific emphasis on food and art in the bucolic surrounds of Western Springs park. Acts so far include The National, Kendrick Lamar, Tami Neilson and Shakey Graves.

4. Auckland Zoo Music

February 5, 13, 20, and 27
Auckland Zoo

If you're staying home, February's Auckland Zoo music series showcases local artists Fly My Pretties, Stan Walker, Bic Runga and Tiny Ruins. Relaxed people, relaxed animals, food. A great ease-back-to-work treat. Music in Parks starts January 10 (until March 30), there are Silo sessions, too.