Calling all lovers of Jesus and Justice
Te Huarahi Passionfest 2026:
Ngatiawa River Monastery | 20–22 February 2026
Tents. Music. Karakia. Big conversations. Shared kai. Kids everywhere. And the legendary Saturday night barn dance. If that sounds like your kind of weekend, then mark your calendar Te Huarahi Passionfest is back, and it’s calling Jesus-followers to gather, dream, and journey together.
Te Huarahi, meaning “the way,” reflects a deeper commitment to walking the path of Jesus in a way that’s shaped by the whenua, the people, and the stories of Aotearoa.
“Te Huarahi is about chasing after Jesus and justice in a way that makes sense here, in this land,” says Stu Macann, Event Organiser.
“It’s a space where young adults and the whole whānau can explore faith, community, and kaitiakitanga together.”
What to Expect
Held at the stunning Ngatiawa River Monastery near Waikanae, Te Huarahi Passionfest is a three-day festival of worship, kōrero, music, art, and whanaungatanga. It’s a place to unplug from the noise, reconnect with what matters, and be part of a movement that’s grounded in love, justice, and radical hospitality.
The 2026 lineup is already shaping up. James Harris, recently involved in the Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage, returns from Australia to share stories of peace and prophetic action. Also joining are Dave and Denise Tims from Tāmaki, long-time champions of community transformation. From closer to Welly are Matt Renata, Kate and Alex from Common Grace, Mika and Anja Hervel, Philippa Cochrane and many more.
On the music front, get ready to dance with the return of the Berrigan Barndance Band, and soak in the soulful sounds of Tofi o Tamatane. Jamie Rodwell from The Street and Isaac Minogue from St Tom’s are coming to lead worship with others.
More kaikōrero (speakers) and kaiwaiata (musicians) will be announced soon.
“We’re bringing together voices that challenge and inspire,” says Stu. “All our speakers are practitioners in their local context.”
A Festival Shaped by Aotearoa
Te Huarahi is a kaupapa grounded in Aotearoa New Zealand. The festival is deeply rooted in the whenua and shaped by te ao Māori.
From the pōwhiri on Friday afternoon to karakia Māori in the Chapel of Tarore, and even a te reo immersion space, the festival is a space where all cultures are welcomed and te reo is celebrated.
“We want to worship Jesus in ways that make sense here,” Stu explains. “Whether you’re fluent or just learning, you’re welcome.”
Who’s It For?
Te Huarahi Passionfest is especially for young adults (18–30) who are exploring faith and justice, but it’s a multigenerational gig and the whole whānau are welcome. We’ll have spaces for kids and teens as well as kaumātua.
Stu says, “It’s not a spectator event. Everyone pitches in. You don’t just attend, you belong.”
Join the Journey
Whether you’re a seasoned activist, a curious seeker, or someone longing for deeper connection Stu’s invitation is to come for the music, stay for the kōrero, and leave with a heart full of hope and a backpack full of stories.
“We’re not just gathering for a weekend,” says Stu. “Jesus calls us to a wholehearted life of courage, creativity, and compassion.”
So, are you in?
Head to tehuarahi.nz to grab your ticket, tell your mates, and get ready for a festival that could change your life.
The Details:
Te Huarahi Passionfest website: www.tehuarahi.nz
📅 When: 20–22 February 2026
🕓 Pōwhiri: 4:30pm Friday | Mihi Whakamutunga: 1:30pm Sunday📍 Where: Ngatiawa River Monastery, 82 Terrace Road, Waikanae
🏕️ Accommodation: Bring your own tent or book a marae-style sleeping space
🍽️ Food: All meals provided (vegetarian/vegan + gluten-free options)
💸 Tickets: Book now on Humanitix
🧳 What to bring: Tent, sleeping gear, warm clothes, torch, mug, water bottle, instruments, art, and an open heart
🚗 Getting there: Parking onsite, public transport to Waikanae, ride-share thread on Facebook
🧒 Whānau-friendly: Alcohol- and drug-free, wheelchair accessible, kids welcome
