Viking life on display as Norsewood festival returns this weekend

The 2023 Viking Festival featured a wedding.

Vikings are set to descend on the Tararua District this weekend for the return of a popular festival.

The two-day annual Norsewood Viking Festival, which took a break in 2025, takes place on Saturday and Sunday. Each action-packed day of immersive historical demonstrations and re-enactments starts at 10am and finishes at 4pm.

Both days open with a parade around Mathews Park, where the event is held.

The day one entertainment includes performances by Parabola West, Ragnarockers, and Hanne Jostensen with “Combat in the Village”, “Living History with Horses”, the Viking Experience and a tug of war on offer.

Day two follows a similar schedule with performances by Sassy Saddles, Cat Trick, and similar demonstrations to the previous day.

Organiser Eva Renbjor said the event was started as a way to allow people to explore a part of Norsewood’s heritage, as well as her own background.

“I am a Norwegian, so I have it in my veins.

“All the Scandinavian people from England and Europe also say, ‘We have a fraction of Norwegian blood in us, we are all a little bit Viking.”

Since it started in 2020, Renbjor said she has worked hard to make it an affordable and authentic experience.

“It was a big surprise the first time that so many were interested in Viking life here in New Zealand.

The Viking Festival in Norsewood showcased authentic fights and costumes in 2024.

“People are very interested in history...they just like to see how to live the Viking life.

She said it was common for people dress up, women wearing linen dresses with aprons, while men wore trousers and tunics.

“If you are using the red colour, it is the most expensive colour to make, and that means you are rich.”

This year, Renbjor said an Icelandic horse would join Norwegian Fjord Horses for the first time.

She said “Living history with Horses”, the Viking Experience, would feature five riders.

“They do different things, so I am really looking forward to seeing what they do this time... it will be a surprise for me.”

Renbjor said she couldn’t put her finger on what the most popular event was, but said combat, as well as trying axe throwing, and archery were highlights for many.

Also on offer this year is a market with 70 stalls and 12 food stalls.

“It’s something for everyone.”

She said there would be a $5 entry fee for adults, and she expected 3000 people on Saturday and 2000 on Sunday if the weather was good.

“I like to have a low price because people are struggling with money.”

Tararua District Mayor Scott Gilmore said the festival was an important two days on the district’s calendar.

“It’s a real recognition of our heritage, but it’s also an incredibly important visitor attraction to the district.

“We take our heritage really seriously, so it’s a great way to showcase that with ourselves but also visitors to the district.”

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said clear weather conditions were expected in the Norsewood area on Saturday and Sunday with a high of 23C.

She said there was a possible chance of a passing shower on Sunday afternoon.

Michaela Gower joined Hawke’s Bay Today in 2023 and is based out of the Hastings newsroom. She covers Dannevirke and Hawke’s Bay news and loves sharing stories about farming and rural communities.