After a few years of cancellations due to covid the Waipu Caledonian Society are excited to be able to hold the annual Waipu Highland Games, welcoming visitors from all over the world to join in celebrating all things Scottish.
On January 1, 2023, the society will be proudly be celebrating their 150th Waipu Highland Games – a huge milestone in anyone’s history and they approach it with great anticipation. Activities and entertainment for all ages. There will be Highland dancing, solo piping and drumming competitions and traditional Scottish field events, kids’ events, adult tug o’ war, and a variety stage. A range of local stalls, food, and refreshments.
Celebrations start on the evening of the 31st of December with the Helen McGregor Memorial Trophy in the Celtic Barn Foyer at 7.00pm. An opportunity for pipers to “flair their fingers” playing whatever they like – be it a medley or several pieces, a modern pop song or something composed by themselves.
On January 1st the day starts at 9.00am with the Street March and the grand entry of the band and clans with the salute to the chief. The 2023 Chief is Bain McGregor and our host Clan for 2023 is Clan McLeod.
Competitions start from 9.00am. and continue through the day, with a break for Lunch at 12.00pm for the official opening in the main arena. The very popular and anticipated mass bands will form for the crowd to be entertained by pipers, drummers, and the Mass Highland Fling. Finishing with the presentation of the Assynt Quaich.
Competitions resume at 1.00pm with excitement in the Main Arena as heavyweights try and attempt to break records. The day finishes with a Ceilidh in the Celtic Barn at 7.00pm with special appearances and performances from our piping, drumming and dancing winners from the day throughout the night.
Waipu Highland Games take place on January 1st in Waipu, Northland, New Zealand. Waipu are one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the Southern Hemisphere, offering fierce competition, spectacular entertainment and a full day of family-friendly fun. For more information on the 150th Waipu Highland Games see: www.waipuhighlandgames.co.nz
