Wairarapa Embraces Thrilling Halloween Events Across Region

Halloween is gearing up to be an exciting event in Wairarapa this year, with a variety of festivities planned across the region. As the spooky season takes hold, local communities are embracing the holiday with numerous events, raising the question: could Wairarapa be the Halloween capital of New Zealand?

Trick-or-treating has transformed significantly over the years. Once a rare occurrence in the 1980s, it has now become a cherished tradition, with dedicated social media groups listing homes that welcome eager trick-or-treaters. This year, Halloween falls on a Friday, October 31, 2025, and the lineup of activities promises to cater to all ages.

Festivities Across Wairarapa

Kicking off the celebrations, the Cobblestones Fright Night at the Museum will take place on Saturday, October 25, from 20:30 to 22:00 in Greytown. This immersive experience is designed for ages nine and up, offering a thrilling adventure for families. Martinborough will also join the Halloween spirit with Kitchener’s kids’ Halloween Party on the same day at 32 Oxford Street, running from 13:00 to 15:00.

Masterton families can look forward to the free Halloween on the Green event at Queen Elizabeth Park, scheduled for October 31 from 16:00 to 19:00. Additionally, Bowloween at Masterbowl will feature live music from The Coffin Fits and Rampage, promising a lively atmosphere from 16:00 to 23:00.

For those seeking cinematic chills, Film Talks will host a special screening of the classic horror film, Bride of Frankenstein, at the Aratoi Wairarapa Museum of Art and History on October 31 from 18:45 to 20:15.

Featherston is also set to offer a range of spooky fun. The Featherston Vinyl Club will host its 4th Annual Halloween Ball at the Featherston Memorial RSA, welcoming trick-or-treaters of all ages. Another notable event is the Halloween Garden Party at the newly opened Mother Goose Bar and Kitchen.

On November 1, Go Zone Carterton will host a Spooktacular Halloween Party, perfect for burning off excess Halloween candy. The Wairarapa Events Centre will also have its first-ever Halloween Rave, providing an opportunity for adults to enjoy the festivities without the worry of sugar overload.

Community Engagement and Excitement

Erin Banks, Team Leader at the Wairarapa Events Centre, expressed the growing enthusiasm for Halloween in the area, stating, “I think a lot of parents realize how much fun it is to get dressed up with their kids for trick-or-treating. There’s freedom and excitement in donning a costume, so we wanted to give the grown-ups a chance to enjoy themselves without a sugar meltdown in tow.”

To wrap up the season, Featherston Ghost Stories at The Dickensian Bookshop will offer candlelit readings of original spooky tales on November 8, as part of the inaugural Featherston Heritage Festival.

The combination of these events reflects the community’s vibrant spirit and the growing popularity of Halloween in Wairarapa. With so many activities planned, residents and visitors alike are sure to experience a Halloween filled with excitement and fun.