Hokonui Moonshiners' Festival

About

The Hokonui Moonshiners' Festival, held every two years is Southland’s premier outdoor heritage food, music and whiskey event.

Story

The Hokonui Moonshiners’ Festival is a must-attend music and food event held biannually in Gore, Southland, New Zealand.

Held in Gore’s Arts & Heritage Precinct, this festival highlights the time-honoured traditions of early Highland Scottish settlers - flaunting Southland’s early prohibition laws and making their own illicit whisky in the Hokonui Hills.

Music

This year’s headline act is Aussie rocker Diesel, known for hits like Tip of My Tongue and Come to Me.

Kiwi acts the Warratahs, The Nukes and Dunedin band Bulletproof Convertible open the Festival, completing six hours of continuous music.

Moonshine

Sampling a shot of Hokonui moonshine is a must at this event! Try either the sweet Hokonui Honey moonshine liqueur, or the Manuka smoked Old Hokonui Moonshine, a unique blend made in the heart of Southland, with spring water from the Hokonui Hills.

Entry to the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, which is located within the heritage precinct is included in the ticket price.

Food

A variety of food stalls complement this event, with many offering Southern fare and heritage-themed food. Beverage tents will offer a range of beer, Central Otago wines, and of course ‘Hokonui Moonshine’ spirits and liqueurs.

It’s a popular day out for locals and attracts visitors from far and wide, so be sure to secure tickets early. Tickets are limited.