CAMBRIDGE & MATAMATA EVENTS 2020

Cambridge Christmas Festival, December 2019. Santa takes a break from the North Pole to spread some Christmas cheer in Cambridge. Held over two weeks in early December, the Town Hall is filled with choirs, carols and homemade crafts. Proceeds benefit local charities. On Facebook. Te Wananga o Aotearoa Waka Ama National Sprint Championships, Lake Karapiro, 13-18 January 2020. One of the biggest events on the Karapiro calendar, the five-day competition sees thousands of paddlers take to the water to show their waka ama skills. Bystanders can keep their feet dry while enjoying the food, fun and festivities. wakaama.co.nz

NZ Grand Prix Hydroplane Championships, Lake Karapiro, February 2020. Speed demons take note – the best of the best take to the lake to blow their competition out of the water in this instalment of the multi-event series. The calm waters make Karapiro an ideal racing location, and spectators can get close to the action on the lakefront. On Facebook.

Tīrau Lions Annual Golf Day, Tīrau Golf Club, 6 February 2020 (Waitangi Day). Whether your game is more pro or slow, golfers of all abilities club together to raise funds for the local emergency services. tiraugolfclub.co.nz Matamata Tower Run, Firth Tower, March 2020. The annual 6.6km or 4km race from Matamata to Firth Tower has been ‘running' since 1977. Held on the first Friday in March, this family-friendly event is open to all ages and paces.