Conferences/Events/Attractions

Thornton Lodge Motel is an ideal base for a group/conference participants to all stay together, or just a base for family and friends.

There is always something happening in our town, but while there are many fun things to do in Waipukurau, here is a wee taste of what our wonderful town has to offer.

JANUARY

• Tour de Beautiful - held annually on the Sunday of Wellington Anniversay Weekend.This tour takes you through the heart of picturesque Central Hawkes Bay, a fun ride with a hill or two and plenty of flats.

FEBRUARY

• Waipawa Veterans Tennis Tournament - a very popular event held on the 3rd weekend of February
• Hawkes Bay Rugby Sevens Tournament
• The world famous 'Art Deco Weekend' -showcasing our wonderful region.  Enjoy a steam train rider from Hastings.

MARCH

• Sea Sky & Bush Walk - a popular 3 day guided walk across private farmland, the coastline, riverlands and natural bush.
• Waipukurau Races - a popular country day at the races.

APRIL

• The Big Easy Warm-up ride - a 12km return warm up ride before 'The Big Easy' held in Hastings and Napier     www.thebigeasy.co.nz

JUNE

• Winter F.A.W.C (Food & Wine Classic) - is a delicious event series of "out of the box" food and wine experiences, set in stunning locations throughout Hawke's Bay

JULY

• Norsewood to Takapau Fun Challenge - a fundraising event, with profits going towards local community causes.  Starting from Norsewood Village and taking the back roads to Takapau.  Experience relaxed atmosphere, breathe in the freshest air all with the snow capped Ruahine Ranges in the backdrop.

AUGUST

• Central Hawke's Bay Business & Professional Womens 'Wearable Creations Event'
• Waipukurau Jockey Club - Winter Race Day

SEPTEMBER

• Visit Taniwha Daffodils - only 10 minutes from Thornton Lodge Motel, pick a bunch or two of daffodils from the paddocks of the Taniwha Homestead.
• CHB - The Festival - held at Pukeora Estate - an arts festival with stall holders and guests from far and wide. 
• The Spring Fling - a series of events throughout the district from Otane to Takapau and everywhere inbetween.   www.thespringfling.co.nz
• Hatuma Lime Half Marathon - a picturesque 21.1km course taking in the circumference of Lake Hatuma.

OCTOBER

• Central and Southern HB Eventing - Arran Station Horse sports

NOVEMBER:

• CHB A & P Show - with agricultural and pastoral displays, horse events, wool/shearing events, dog trials and a variety of stalls.  A fabulous day out and not to be missed.
• Summer F.A.W.C (Food & Wine Classic) - is a delicious event series of "out of the box" food and wine experiences, set in stunning locations throughout Hawke's Bay

DECEMBER

• Waipukurau Christmas at the Races - An historic racecourse with country racing at its finest with an added touch of charm.  Indulge in a delicious Christmas themed hamper and enjoy the festive atmosphere, live entertainment, Fashion in the Fields and up-close thoroughbred racing. 

While this is just a snippet of events that take place around Central Hawkes Bay, many other fairs/gatherings, exhibitions etc are held throughout the year.

Other attractions include:

• Cold Duck Rally - held in May and bikers enjoy live bands and on-site catering,
• Motorcross - meetings and competions held regularily.
• Ranui Farm Park - open during summer months, a haven for those looking for a farm or fitness experience.
• Mountain Biking
• 5 Golf Courses - situated Waipukurau, Waipawa, Takapau, Onga Onga and Porongahau.
• 40 minute drive to local beaches
• Otane Market - held every Sunday from 9am till 1 pm - local arts, crafts, fresh produces and lots more
• Wineries - Junction Wines, Lime Rock Wines, Pukeora Estate Winery - please note the winerys have varying opening hours/seasons.
• Waipawa Township - a 10 minute drive and home of the CHB Settlers Museum and Artmosphere Gallery, cafes and second hand shops
• Visit a historic Homestead
• Backpaddock Lakes Wake Board and Water Ski Park - give their cable ski a go, open Labour Weekend through Easter.
• And many more ..................