Karapiro Music Festival

The big drawcard for this event was seeing two iconic 70s performers, Shane and Suzanne. Suzanne, of course, performed with her sister Judith as one half of The Chicks. A real trip down memory lane.

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Karapiro is the home of Rowing and Kayaking in the North Island.

I’d booked in for four nights to make the most of it. The event itself ran for three days, but being Karapiro and with them offering a great deal for concert goers, I figured I’d go all out!

Looking over at the River

I initially scored a front-row spot overlooking the river, but thanks to the rain, the ground was a bit too slippery to get Rafe level. So, I moved just back behind the front row where the surface was more solid and flat, which was much better. Later that day, a lovely couple with a caravan parked in front of me but offset, so we both had views. Perfect setup!

Click on the Gallery below to see the area enlarged.

The first day was mostly about everyone arriving, setting up, and getting a feel for the place. I’ve been to Karapiro a few times before, once even with 30-odd Dethleffs motorhomes when I organised a Dethleffs Owners Club get-together. They’ve always looked after us here, and it’s such a beautiful spot.

Click on the Gallery below to see the Walk Ups enlarged.

The second day, more vans rolled in. After lunch, I wandered down to the Don Rowlands Centre to check out the action. They were holding “Walk Ups”, where keen singers and musicians could perform on stage with the volunteer band and some of them were seriously talented! Great guitar work, strong vocals, and a really good vibe.

Lovely area

There were line dancers going for it, people dancing everywhere. It was just good old-fashioned fun. During the dinner break, a few caterers were on hand offering simple, tasty meals, and then it was back into the music until late.

Line Dancing

Show day arrived and, after another round of walk-ups, it was time for the main event, Shane and Suzanne. They looked amazing, sounded great, and considering they’re both well into their 70s, they put so much energy into their performance.

Shane getting the clapping going

During Shane’s performance, he jumped down off the stage to get people to join in. Turn on the sound and click below 🙂

It really took me back to the Happen Inn and C’mon days on 60s TV where they both featured regularly.  Nostalgia dialed up to 11!

Click on the Gallery below to enlarge Shane and Suzanne.

The next morning, I tidied up Rafe and started heading for home.

On the last day!

A great few days away, amazing location, and some real music legends. Karapiro never disappoints.

Rafe’s tracker map to Karapiro – Armada GPS