This is New Zealand's most ebullient celebration to herald the season of falling leaves. Now an established feature on the travel calendar, the 27th Arrowtown Autumn Festival will be staged among nature's riot of seasonal hues from April 29 to May 8.
The village buzzes with seasonal activities, events and bonhomie,
drawing thousands of visitors. Just as the rush gave birth to this alluring village, Arrowtown's autumnal displays are a stirring legacy of the early settlers who revolutionised the barren landscape that first greeted them. In 1867, Alexander Innes, a visionary early resident who would later become mayor, implemented a far-reaching plan that led to the tree-lined avenue design of Buckingham St and the proliferation of leafy soft furnishings across the district.
Oaks, sycamores, cork elms and ashes were the most commonly planted trees, which are responsible for the area's dazzling autumn colour show.
From April 29, Arrowtown beckons visitors with a range of festivities including market days, street parades, guided walks, special historic exhibitions and live entertainment. Signature highlights include the Arrow Miners' Brass Band, the Buckingham Belles (a burlesque dancing troop that performs a raunchy can-can), Jo Seagar's autumnal entertaining classes, an art-to-wear extravaganza and a lavish country-style hoedown dance and dinner. This family-friendly festival is loaded with child-oriented activities, including treasure hunts and cooking classes. www.arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz
