Tuning up for festival with good folk

Australian James Kenyon launches his new single on his New Zealand tour, which includes Waiotapu.

From humble beginnings, the Waiotapu Folk Festival is growing into an event where locals can experience guest musicians performing original and contemporary live music.

The aim of the festival is to "promote spontaneous creativity, to bring families together and broaden our experiences", said organiser Karin Vincent, who believes such festivals grow a positive mindset in our local community.

Folk musician Adam McGrath takes the stage along with international acts at the Waiotapu Folk Festival this weekend.

She said bringing the festival together for a third time had been a positive experience, and the weekend was bursting with local and international acts.

"It's going to be incredible. The energy is just flowing, it's going to be like a mini-Womad."

Featuring music from Adam McGrath, Glass Vaults, James Kenyon, Looking for Alaska, Jonny Avery, Scarlett Eden, Zen, Straighten Your Crown, Penni Feather, Jerseybob and Our Monika, the festival is not a commercial enterprise, but a social one that rewards participants with quality music, food and a homely welcome.

Australian singer-songwriter Kenyon's songs have been described as "view from a car or a silhouette of a silo or a window in a hall; songs that stand tall for the ages. The former arborist, shearer's hand and social worker's songs reflect the land where he lives and works. The characters, stories, tragedies and triumphs form a lyrical road map of the country and suburbs.

Kenyon is renowned for his powerful live performances, which have seen him play throughout Australia and internationally alongside Marlon Williams, Liz Stringer, Charlie Parr, Jordi Lane and many others. As well as musicians, the festival also features poets, art, group singing, children's activities, organic food, yoga and a buskers' stage.

Ms Vincent said the Waiotapu site was ideal because it was within striking distance of both Taupo and Rotorua.

Details:

* What: Waiotapu Folk Festival 2016

* Where: Waiotapu Forest Camp, Old Waiotapu Rd, SH5

* When: Today until Monday

* How much: $89 - all proceeds in aid of supporting homegrown NZ music and musicians. Camp sites $15 per person per night.