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Welcome to Bana Kuma Fest—four days of drumming, dance, live music, and community in one of New Zealand's most extraordinary places.The Republic of Whangamōmona may technically be part of New Zealand... although its famous goat president might have a different opinion. Nestled on the legendary Forgotten World Highway, this tiny republic is a place that feels delightfully removed from the rest of the world. One main street. A historic hotel. Rolling green hills. A beautiful old town hall. The perfect place to gather, learn, celebrate, and create together.
This year marks an exciting new chapter.
Rather than remaining in a traditional teacher-student model, Bana Kuma is evolving into a community where experienced students step into leadership alongside our guest teachers, helping share the rhythms, dances, and spirit of the Bana Kuma tradition.
For those who are interested, Chris Berry will also be offering a Masterclass on Thursday 25 March, ahead of the festival.
Festival Programme (26–28 March)
✨ Drum and dance workshops with Chris Berry and an inspiring team of teachers
🎶 Live music on Friday and Saturday evenings featuring a range of incredible bands
🌍 Community, connection, and plenty of opportunities to play, dance, and celebrate together
🙏 A powerful closing 'Prayerformance' on Sunday evening, bringing together participants, teachers, musicians, and the wider community.
All camp activities take place in the beautiful Whangamōmona Town Hall, built in 1903 and full of character.
Live Music Festival
For the first time, we're expanding into Bana Kuma Fest, with a weekend of live music alongside the camp.
Camp participants receive entry to all evening performances as part of their registration. The Friday and Saturday evening concerts and the Sunday Prayerformance are also open to the public.
Whangamōmona is wonderfully compact—everything is just a few minutes' walk away. You'll need to book your own accommodation—options include camping, the historic Whangamōmona Hotel, other local accommodation and Airbnb. Note that Whangamōmona always books out at Easter, so don't delay or you'll miss out.
Whether you've been part of Bana Kuma for years or are joining us for the first time, we'd love you to be part of this special gathering.
Come for the rhythms. Stay for the friendships. Leave inspired.
See the Discussion section of this page for the sign up form.
Email [email protected]
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Event venue
Whangamomona, 40 Whangamomona Rd, Whangamomona, Stratford 4396, New Zealand, Stratford
Tickets
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