Vintage vibes galore at Whanganui’s biggest street party!

Mainstreet Caboodle transforms Whanganui’s heritage-filled town centre into an outdoor carnival celebrating all things vintage!

With live music across three stages, roving street performers throughout the CBD, a vintage toy market, fine food and fashion, and an array of stunning classic automobiles lining the streets – it’s no wonder they call Caboodle Whanganui’s biggest party.

So don your favourite vintage attire, grab your steampunk goggles and join us for a day of revelry in New Zealand’s most beautiful little city!

Majestic Square Stage - Performance Schedule

10.30am      Te Taikura o Te Awa Tupua Kapahaka
11.00am         Whanganui Jazz Orchestra
11.45am      Whanganui Highland Pipe Band
12.15pm      Whanganui Jazz Orchestra
1.15pm        That’s Irish
2:30pm        Vintage Vogue

Main Stage / Block 1- Performance Schedule

3.30pm        BB & The Bulllets
4.30pm        Bylaws
5.30pm        The Rustlers
6.30pm        Whiskey Mama
7.30pm        Damn Raucous Brass
8.30pm       The Replicants
10.00pm       Finish

Step back in time with Steam Incorporated on a special heritage train ride between Whanganui’s Taupo Quay and Kai Iwi. Experience the thrill of mainline steam power, with Ab 608 leading the charge and supported by classic diesel traction.

From the moment we depart Taupo Quay, the journey is full of highlights. Hear the locomotive thunder up the legendary Westmere Bank — one of New Zealand’s steepest climbs — where the engine truly shows its strength. Just before Kai Iwi, travel along the impressive 2008 Kai Iwi deviation, offering sweeping views and a glimpse of the historic old route it replaced.

At Kai Iwi, the diesel takes over for the return, tackling the grades once more before bringing us back to Taupo Quay. It’s a nostalgic round trip filled with heritage, history, and the unbeatable sights and sounds of vintage rail travel.

Where - 151 Taupo Quay, KiwiRail Freight Yard, Gonville
When - First departure at 8:50am, returning 11:10am | Second departure at 11:15am, returning 1:50pm
Prices - $49 G.A | $179 Family (2A + 2C) | Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

The Whanganui River Markets takes on the vintage theme for their hugely popular Saturday morning market. Dress up from your favourite era to visit and shop the way we used to, directly with the people who grow, produce, make and create their huge range of goods. Delicious street food, a farmers market section, art, crafts, plants, there are over 150 stalls with everything imaginable including lots of treasures from the past.

Where: Downtown Riverbank 9-23 Taupo Quay
When: 8.30am - 1pm
Price – Free entry, stall holder fee applies

A diverse group of artists displaying a great variety of art covering all mediums and styles. Oils, Watercolours, Acrylics, Pastels, Pencil Work and Mixed Media. There is a great selection for all tastes. Over Saturday and Sunday, some artists will be painting in the rooms. Come and see our great variety of art and meet some of our artists.

All works are for sale and Eftpos is available.

Where - Whanganui Community Arts Centre, 19 Taupo Quay, Whanganui
When – 9am – 4pm
Price - Free entry

This group of artists paints weekly at Christ Church Community Hall, Wickstead Street, every Thursday and we welcome new members to join this friendly group.

The Whanganui Vintage Radio Museum is a fascinating collection of historical radios and related memorabilia. It showcases over 500 vintage radios, spanning the early 20th century through to the mid 1950s, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of radio technology and broadcasting. It's a must-visit for enthusiasts of radio technology and history. A burst of Valve radios from the past. Come and enjoy the nostalgia.

Where - 50 Fox Road, Whanganui
When - 9am–5pm
Price - Koha/donation toward restoration work appreciated

Frosty Moons invites you to join us in our first cake picnic! Based on the viral cake picnic event turned global sensation - we will be showcasing all the yummy offerings Whanganui has to offer. Register your interest, bake a cake and bring it in to share on the day, then choose from the delicious array of cakes to enjoy picnic-style with fellow cake lovers.

We will be giving away prizes for cakes based on a voting system on the day!

Where - 38 Drews Ave, Whanganui
When - 9:30am - 12pm
Ticket price/Entry fee: $20 - Register via email frostymoons@outlook.co.nz or in-store before the 31st of December 2025.

NB. Tickets will not available on the day

Get ready for a free-to-view spectacle as Wheels on Victoria takes over the central city, showcasing hundreds of vehicles spanning all eras and styles—from Vintage Cars over 100 years old to Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, and Classic Cars. The car display will cover two blocks of Victoria Avenue, stretching from Ridgway Street through to Guyton Street.

Don't miss the special Motorbike Showcase, located on Guyton Street, between Victoria Avenue and St Hill Street, celebrating the legacy of Whanganui motorcycling pioneer Percy Coleman. The Wanganui Royal Enfield Riders Club is hosting the 'Percy Coleman 100 Year Ride,' marking the centenary of his 1925 shop opening on Guyton Street.

Come along and revive your memories by seeing these classic machines!

Where - Ridgway to Ingestre Streets
When -  10am - 4pm | 8.00am Cars start arriving
Price - Free

At this year's Drews Ave Street party, it's a trip down memory lane. A nod to the good old days… but on Drews Ave, it's still the good old days. Carnival-like side shows. Hobby Horses, paper planes, bike rides, backyard games, delectable food options, live music and sitting in the sun, having a pint.

It's gonna be hot so be prepared to get wet. ***Jandals optional.

Where - Drews Ave
When - 10am–4.30pm
Price - Free

Park-up on Rutland Street, for viewing and admiration! A fine collection of some of Whanganui’s vintage & historic tractors, lovingly restored and maintained.

Where - Drews Ave & Tractor Run around the bridges
When - 10am–12pm - Drews Ave Park Up | 12pm - Tractor Run & then back to Drews Ave until 4pm
Cost - Free to view

Contact Hugh if you'd like to enter a Tractor

Don't miss the special Motorbike Showcase, located on Guyton Street, between Victoria Avenue and St Hill Street, celebrating the legacy of Whanganui motorcycling pioneer Percy Coleman. The Wanganui based NZ Royal Enfield Riders Club is hosting the 'Percy Coleman 100 Year Exhibition' in collaboration with the Whanganui Classic Club, featuring the brands imported by the Coleman business from 1930 to 1984. These incl AJS, BSA, Norton, NSU, Lambretta, Montesa, Royal Enfield, Triumph, Suzuki plus 1925-1942 Harley Davidson & Indian machines and mark the centenary year of his Nov 1925 shop opening on Guyton Street. 

Where - Guyton St - Part of Wheels on Victoria
When - 10am–4.00pm
Cost - Free

Come and see working examples of the machines that powered the industries of New Zealand and the world 100 + years ago. Take a trailer ride behind one of our beautifully restored old steam driven traction engines and experience the sight, sound and smell of a time long past.

The kids will love seeing and riding behind our live traction engine models as they chuff around just like their big cousins used to.

Where - Taupo Quay, Moutoa Gardens
When - 10am–4pm
Price - $3 a ride - available on site

Join us for a scenic Retro and Vintage Bike Ride around the iconic bridges of Whanganui! The ride starts at the Green Bikes Workshop at 10 am, and you are welcome to bring your own vintage or retro bike. If you don't have one, no worries—Green Bikes will supply one for you!

Participants are encouraged to dress in vintage attire to match the theme, though it's completely optional. The ride will finish at the Green Bikes Workshop and we will see who wins the prizes for Best Bike and Best Attire. We will also have a BBQ for post-ride snacks.

Where - 23 Drews Ave, Whanganui
When - Registration 9am - 9:45am | Ride 10am–11am | Prizegiving & BBQ 11am
Cost - $5 with free BBQ sausage

Space Studio & Gallery, located in the historic 1907 Dalgety & Co Warehouse on Saint Hill Street, will open its doors for the first time during Vintage Weekend. Photographer Gary McClintock presents 'Utility' - a photographic exhibition exploring how society's changing priorities impact heritage past and present, alongside two solo exhibitions by Duncan Foord and Susan Vorster. The gallery will also feature a collection of relics and photographs highlighting the history and development of this remarkable heritage building

Where - Space Studio & Gallery, 18 Saint Hill Street, Whanganui
When - Gallery Open: 10am - 3pm | Guided Building Tours (max 10 per tour): 11am & 2pm - meet in the downstairs gallery
Price - Free Entry

Cocktail classics and vintage recipes - explore the flavours of yesteryear in and around The Distillery. A new bar, in a historic part of Whanganui.

Where - The Distillery, 17 Drews Ave, Whanganui
When - 10am - 5pm
Price - Free Entry

Step into nostalgia at the Vintage Art Jumble, curated by local artist Melanie Fleet for Whanganui’s Vintage Weekend. Hosted in the beautifully retro Ministry of Works Building, this eclectic pop-up showcases a mix of vintage-inspired art, upcycled creations, and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Explore artwork by local artists alongside a hand-picked selection of vintage wares, curios, décor, and collectible pieces that celebrate character, history, and creativity. Whether you're hunting for a unique artwork, a classic find, or simply soaking up the vintage charm, the Vintage Art Jumble offers a warm, welcoming space to browse, buy, and be inspired.

Where - 62 Taupo Quay Whanganui
When – 10am - 4pm
Price - Free entry

Located in the heart of historic Whanganui, New Zealand Glassworks is the national centre for glass and a vibrant hub for the craft of hot glass. 

Whanganui has a rich legacy in glassmaking and is home to a thriving community of artists dedicated to this extraordinary craft. Housed in the former printing press building of The Chronicle newspaper, NZ Glassworks offers a unique and inspiring space where creativity comes to life. 

NZGlassworks is a public facility which is free to enter to watch artists at work and view the gallery and retail space. During Vintage Weekend 2026 we are offering a variety of paid glassblowing experiences.

Where - 2 Rutland St, Whanganui
When - 10am–4 pm
Saturday - Make a Paperweight Workshop $160pp, Beginners Glassblowing Level 1 Workshop $430pp | Sunday - Make a Tumbler Workshop $200pp

Workshops are available for people aged 15 and over.

Come and join us this Whanganui Vintage Weekend for a 30 minute cruise through the city. Let’s carry 1000 passengers over the holiday weekend break the record for the busiest boat at vintage weekend.

Spot prizes throughout the day for the best nautical or vintage attire.

Where - 1H Taupo Quay. (Cr Taupo Quay and Bates Street).
When - 10am to 3pm
Price - Adults (16+) $10 Children (0-15) $5

Gate sales ONLY. Cash and EFTPOS accepted.

The chance to view buildings and objects that children would have played with long ago! Trains, cars, dolls and more. Pencil and paper for drawing will be provided. Photo shows the exterior of one doll's house, come and see the interior. Photos of doll houses permitted.

Where - Cooks Gallery, Trafalgar Place, off Ridgway Street
When - 10am to 4pm
Price - Free

More info TBC

Where - Ridgeway Street, Near Rutland Arms
When - 10am to 4pm
Price - Free

Our shed will be open to see the historic railway items and restoration work.

The recently dug up Skunk from the south mole will also be on display. This is reportedly the oldest NZ-built steam locomotive!

Unfortunately we cannot operate our trolleys on Saturday/Sunday due to the visiting Steam Incorporated trains in town. However, we will offer an open day with motor trolley rides on Monday the 19th.

Where - 151 Taupo Quay, KiwiRail Freight Yard, Gonville
When - 10am–4pm
Cost - Gold coin donation

Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he’s handed a task – if he rescues Princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but a fairytale wouldn’t be complete without a few twists and turns along the way!

Based on the Dreamworks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig, Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abair, Music by Jeanine Tesori. Originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions.

Where - Repertory Theatre - 4 Ridgway Street
When - 11am-12.30pm & 6pm-7.30pm
Cost - Adults $20 | Under 18 $10

Step back in time on our heritage train as we travel from Whanganui’s Taupo Quay to the charming settlement of Ruatangata. Powered by a combination of steam and diesel locomotives, this scenic journey showcases the unique track south of Whanganui.

Departing behind our heritage diesel-electric, the train plunges through the historic Fordell Tunnel, giving you a few minutes of thrilling darkness before emerging to stunning views of the Whangaehu River winding through the countryside. Soon after, we cross the river on our approach to Ruatangata — a waterway steeped in New Zealand railway history.

At Ruatangata, the steam locomotive takes over for the return journey. Feel the power and hear the roar as we speed north through rolling hills back to Whanganui. Perfect for families and rail enthusiasts alike, this is a nostalgic afternoon of classic rail travel you won’t want to miss!

Where - 151 Taupo Quay, KiwiRail Freight Yard, Gonville
When - Departs at 1:45pm, returning 4:05pm
Cost - GA - $49 | Family (2A & 2C) - $179 | Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

Durie Hill Elevator will offer special guided tours during Whanganui Vintage Weekend. A unique form of public transport, Durie Hill Elevator opened on August 2, 1919. Set into the hill, the 213 metre tunnel and 66 metre public transport elevator - staffed then as now by an operator, enable a short journey by foot or bicycle between Whanganui and Durie Hill. In the guided tours, visitors will see some of the capabilities of the newly installed tunnel lighting and displays, and hear more detail about the elevator story. Visitors will ride the elevator with a Whanganui Connection guide, and also see the famous Mercury Arc Rectifier.

Where - Durie Hill Elevator - Tunnel Entrance: 42 Anzac Parade, Whanganui
When - 1pm–1.45pm & 2pm–2:45pm
Price - Adults - $20.75 | Youth (18 or under) - $14.50 | Infant (3 or under) - Free

Family discounts, and discounts for Whanganui residents available.

Join the fabulous Fashion Show at Majestic Square and strut your stuff in your finest vintage attire. It's a golden opportunity to showcase your favourite era and dazzling style!

Our expert judges will pick winners in each category for a selection of fantastic prizes from esteemed Whanganui businesses. Register to be in the show or come along to check out the array of vintage looks. 

Where - Majestic Square Main Stage
When -  Registrartion: 10:30am. Start time: 2:30pm - 4pm
Cost - Free

More info coming soon!

The Classic Cruise is on again this Anniversary weekend. Cars assemble in the Mitre 10 Mega carpark from 4.00pm. The Classic Cruise raises money for the Wanganui Cancer Society cost per vehicle is $15.00. Entrants receive the cruise route instructions as the run leaves the M10 carpark at 5.00pm. Assemble from 4.00pm. This event is popular with entrants, the public & rest home residents who get to see the cars drive through their grounds. If you own a vintage, different or quirky vehicle or maybe just your everyday car but would like to be part of this fun event come along & join in.

Where - Cars assemble at Mitre10 Mega carpark
When - 4pm Assembly - 5pm Departure
Price - $15 per vehicle with proceeds going to the Cancer Society

Call Rob on 027 433 2626 for more details.

Step onboard our heritage train hauled by Ab 608, complete with an open viewing platform, and enjoy a delicious country-style meal along the way.

Traveling south, the train plunges through the historic Fordell Tunnel for a few thrilling minutes of darkness before crossing the iconic Whangaehu River — a waterway rich in New Zealand railway history, flowing 161 kilometres from Mount Ruapehu to the South Taranaki Bight. We then pass through the impressive 2km-long Turakina Tunnel, dating back to 1947, as we approach Marton.

Marton, a charming farming town in the heart of the Rangitikei district, grew rapidly after the railway arrived in 1878, shaping its thriving industrial heritage. Here, you’ll have a brief opportunity to disembark and collect a pre-packed meal prepared by Sandy and her team. Grab a drink from the bar and settle in for a true country dining experience as the steam locomotive powers you back to Whanganui — an evening of heritage rail, scenic landscapes, and memorable flavours!

Where - 151 Taupo Quay, KiwiRail Freight Yard, Gonville
When - 4pm - 7.10pm
Cost - General Admission $99 | Infant (0-2yrs) - FREE provided they remain on the lap of a fare-paying adult.

Fares include your meal and your return train travel!

Listen to the highly regarded Andrew London and Friends play their ever-popular sounds during one of two Vintage Weekend trips.

A unique opportunity to experience the Paddle Steamer Waimarie. Andrew London & Co will take you back to the swinging 50s for what is fast becoming our most popular themed cruise.

Book early to secure your place - Limited tickets available.

Where - Paddle Steamer Waimarie - Riverboat Centre
When - Boarding 5.30pm | Depart 6pm to 8pm
Price - $95 each (Includes complementary glass of bubbles & light finger food)

Book your tickets via the button below, or visit the Riverboat Centre

Great Opera Moments is an opportunity to be enchanted and entertained by all the students of the School in their final Gala Concert. An evening of arias staged in a magical way at the Royal Whanganui Opera House. Our aim is to give you pure operatic pleasure.

Where - Royal Whanganui Opera House, 69 Street Hill Street, Whanganui
When – Doors from 7pm - Show starts 7.30pm till 10pm - includes an interval.
Price - $40.00 Student (includes programme); $50.00 Adult (includes programme)

Tickets available from RWOH Box Office (Monday to Friday 10am-1.30pm) and online via the link below.