Story perspectives

Womad Festival Takes 2026 Hiatus for Future Sustainability

9/10/2025

29 2

Summary

Story summary

Womad, a major music and arts festival in Taranaki, will take a year off in 2026, marking its third cancellation in over 20 years.
Rising costs and changing conditions prompted the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust's decision.
Event director Suzanne Porter highlights the need for a "purposeful rest" to secure the festival's future.
Since 2003, Womad has generated around $190 million for the Taranaki economy.
The festival annually attracts thousands with performances from local and international artists.

1 of 1

Story summary

Womad, a major music and arts festival in Taranaki, will take a year off in 2026, marking its third cancellation in over 20 years.
Rising costs and changing conditions prompted the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust's decision.
Event director Suzanne Porter highlights the need for a "purposeful rest" to secure the festival's future.
Since 2003, Womad has generated around $190 million for the Taranaki economy.
The festival annually attracts thousands with performances from local and international artists.