CAMBRIDGE AUTUMN FESTIVAL!
FRIDAY 28 MARCH – SUNDAY 6 APRIL 2025

HARP AND THE LYRE: BOOK TALK & MUSICAL EVENT

FRIDAY 28 MARCH

Join Cambridge author Holly Christina as she talks about publishing her third novel in the climate-fiction series. The event will include musical presentations.

Set in the town of Novel, HARP AND THE LYRE speaks about belonging, courage, and the fight for justice. Who will make it to The Exchange? 
harpandthelyre.com

WHEN: 5.30pm Friday 28 March
WHERE: Cambridge Library, 23 Wilson St
ENTRY: Free. 

LA VOCE O ROTORUA

FRIDAY 28 MARCH

Experience this superb newly formed male trio singing opera, musical theatre and waiata. Featuring Arana Ashby, Marangai Wainohu Savage and Tamati Cassidy, these young men from Rotorua will wow you with their talent and charismatic performances. They love what they do and can’t wait to share their sound with you.
WHEN: 7pm Friday 28 March
WHERE: The Woolshed, Te Awa Lifecare Village, 1866 Cambridge Road

With support from: 

REPAIR REVOLUTION WAIPĀ: KIDS SEWING

SATURDAY 29 MARCH

Hand Stitched Clothing Up-cycling Workshop

Join us for a fun and creative kids’ sewing workshop, where children (aged 8+) will learn how to repair and reimagine their favourite clothes! Attendees are invited to bring an item that’s stained, torn, or damaged, and with hands-on guidance, they’ll discover how to fix it using simple hand-stitching techniques. Led by Sarah from Sip and Sew, a trained primary school teacher, this workshop will spark creativity and help kids see the potential in items that might otherwise be thrown away.

The session will cover valuable skills, from sewing basics to imaginative design, while giving old clothes a new life. Your child will leave with a sense of accomplishment and a memorable experience filled with creativity and hands-on learning!

Parents can either drop their kids off or stay to join the fun.

What’s included: All equipment and repair materials, and a light morning tea.

WHEN: 9am-12pm Sat 29 March
WHERE: Taylor Made Community Space
22A Taylor St, Cambridge
TICKETS: $10

CAMBRIDGE BRICKTOPIA 2025

SATURDAY 29 MARCH

Who doesn’t love Lego? As part of Cy-Co’s Brain Injury Awareness Month fundraising, this event brings together young and old through the creative and rehabilitative power of Lego. Follow instructions, build your own imagination creation or just come and look at what others can do with the humble coloured brick. Cy-Co will be there brewing coffee as well.

WHEN: 10am-2pm Saturday 29 March
WHERE: Resthaven Village Centre, 4 Vogel Street
ENTRY: Koha (all funds to Brain Injury Waikato)

REPAIR AND RESTORATION

SATURDAY 29 MARCH
Tools, Tips, and Your First Project

Join Shelley from The Restoration Workshop for a hands-on session where you’ll learn the basics of repair, restoration, and essential tool techniques! Whether it’s a small piece of furniture, broken picture frame, a children’s toy, jewellery box, or a sentimental item waiting for a little TLC, this workshop is for you.

With over 20 years of experience, Shelley will teach you simple, practical techniques on how to use essential tools to breathe new life into your treasured belongings.

Bring along an item you’d like to restore and learn how to identify common issues, understand the repair process with hands-on experience to restore or transform your item into something fresh and new. 
Suitable for attendees aged 18+.
No experience is needed!

WHEN: 2-4pm Sat 29 March
WHERE: Taylor Made Community Space
22A Taylor St, Cambridge
TICKETS: $20

REPAIR REVOLUTION WAIPĀ: SIP & SEW

SATURDAY 29 MARCH
Sew your own repair kit

Join us for a fun afternoon of sewing and great company! Led by the amazing Sarah from Sip & Sew, you’ll create your very own personalised repair kit, packed with everything you’ll need for future fixes. This is the perfect opportunity to learn practical sewing skills in a relaxed and supportive space.

Sarah will guide you through the basics of using a sewing machine and tips to repair your loved pieces at home. By the end of the workshop, you’ll feel confident tackling sewing repairs with your very own handy repair kit.

It’s all about having a good time, learning something new, and discovering the joy of repairs. Plus, there will be light refreshments to enjoy while you get creative. Grab your friends (or come solo) and join us for a fun afternoon of sewing, laughter, and hands-on learning!
This event is suitable for adults aged 18+.
No experience is needed!

What’s included: All equipment and light refreshments.

WHEN: 3.30pm – 6.00pm, Sat 29 March
WHERE: Good Union 98 Victoria St

TE AWA LIFECARE CARNIVAL & ART MARKET

SUNDAY 30 MARCH

Town comes alive on this huge community day. Bring the whole family and enjoy the vibe as musicians, dancers and entertainers perform. The footpaths and Victoria Square are brimming with original art, photography, jewellery, pottery, sculpture, woodwork and more. 
For the children, there will be entertainment, ‘have a go’ activities, and photo opportunities with street performers. Don’t miss the Art Exhibition + Sale at the Cambridge Town Hall and the Quilt and Photo Exhibition at St Andrew’s Church Hall.
Details of the scheduled performances will be in the Cambridge News and Te Awamutu News on 27 March.

WHEN: 10am – 2pm Sunday 30 March WHERE: Victoria Street & Victoria Square 
With support from: 

REPAIR REVOLUTION WAIPĀ: REPAIR INFO HUB

SUNDAY 30 MARCH

Come along to our repair info hub, dedicated to the art of fixing the things you love! Discover live demonstrations and get inspired with practical tips for repairing everything from household items to treasured possessions. Connect with like-minded people while discovering new ways to reduce waste and spark your creativity! We’ll also have a tinker table for kids, where young makers can explore how things are made.

This event is hosted by Cambridge Repair Collective and is part of the Cambridge Autumn Festival Main Street Carnival Day.

WHEN: 10am-2pm Sun 30 March
WHERE Main Street Carnival – Victoria Square

EXHIBITION OF PHOTOS AND QUILTS

SATURDAY 29 & SUNDAY 30 MARCH

Experience a joint exhibition and sale of art works and images by Cambridge Photographic Club and Cambridge Patchwork and Craft Group (Cambridge Quilters).

Discover artistry in every stitch and frame and enjoy a chat with the talented artists behind the work.

A celebration of local creativity, culture, and craftsmanship!

WHEN:
10am-3pm, Sat 29 – Sun 30 March

WHERE:
St Andrew’s Church Hall,
85 Hamilton Road

ART EXHIBITION + SALE

THURSDAY 27 – SUNDAY 30 MARCH
Well-known New Zealand Artists.
This wonderful exhibition of NZ artists is brought to you by the Cambridge Art Society. This is your opportunity to invest in quality pieces for your home. 

WHEN: 5.30pm-7pm Thur 27 March
9.30am-4.30pm Fri 28 & Sat 29 March
9.30am-3.30pm Sun 30 March
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall
ENTRY: Koha

Painting by artist: Ian Lewell

REPAIR REVOLUTION WAIPĀ: KINTSUGI

TUESDAY 1 APRIL

Join us for a hands-on Kintsugi workshop with expert Yoko Shimoyama. Kintsugi, or “Golden Joinery,” is the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics using lacquer and gold powder, turning flaws into a celebration of imperfection.

In this tutorial, Yoko will guide you through the process and show you how to restore your broken ceramics in a unique and beautiful way. No experience is needed. You will receive step-by-step instructions on how to restore your ceramics with a golden touch.

Spaces are limited, book your spot today. This event is suitable for adults aged 18+.

What you need to bring:
– a broken ceramic (ideally an item with 1 to 3 broken or chipped pieces)
– a box to transport your repaired ceramics home.

All materials for the repair will be provided.

To be prepared for the workshop
– tie up long hair
– avoid wearing tops with long, loose sleeves. Please wear something fitted or a top with sleeves you can easily roll up.

WHEN: 6-8pm Tues 1 April
WHERE: Taylor Made Community Space
22A Taylor St, Cambridge

REPAIR REVOLUTION WAIPĀ: PATCH IT PERFECT

TUES 1 APRIL & THUR 3 APRIL
School Uniform Repair

Bring your school uniforms back to life at our casual repair session! Whether it’s a torn hem, missing button, or worn-out patch, we’re here to help you fix it with a little creativity and some hands-on support. Our friendly sewing helpers will show you the basics of simple repairs, from stitching to patching, and offer helpful tips for fixing all those little uniform mishaps. Not only will you leave with mended clothes, but you’ll also experience the satisfying, rewarding feeling of doing it yourself.

No sewing experience is needed. Join us and take home not just a fixed uniform, but a new skill you can use again and again!

What to bring: Any school uniform items in need of repair.

WHEN: 10am-2pm Tues 1 April and 2–5pm Thur 3 April
WHERE: Cambridge Community House
193 Shakespeare Street, Leamington
Free Entry

BRIGHT SPARKS STAND-UP COMEDY NIGHT

THURSDAY 3 APRIL

Get ready for a comedy spectacle as eight comedians hit the stage for an unforgettable night of stand-up!

Featuring Marty Bright, a brilliant comic shiner from Australia who has taken his unique, up-beat brand of physical and observational hybrid comedy across Australia, NZ, Thailand, USA and Canada.

Now in Cambridge for one night! R18

WHEN: 7.30pm Thursday 3 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall

HOUSTOUN PLAYS SCHUBERT & GERSHWIN

THURSDAY 3 APRIL

Much-loved Kiwi concert pianist Michael Houstoun will play some of the most beautiful melodies ever composed in his recital of works by Schubert and Gershwin – Impromptus and a sonata by the former, famous songs in virtuoso arrangements by the latter.
Photo credit: Photo by Pete Monk Photography, www.petemonk.com

WHEN: 7pm Thursday 3 April
WHERE: The Woolshed, Te Awa Lifecare Village, 1866 Cambridge Road

CAMBRIDGE CAN DANCE

FRIDAY 4 APRIL

This popular dance event has returned to our programme for another year.

Come along and see this colourful dance showcase.

There will be contemporary dance, ballet and dancing from across the globe. Each group will dance for 15-20 minutes.

Come and be inspired – you might even be tempted to join in!

WHEN: 6pm Friday 4 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall
ENTRY: Koha

FRIDAY NIGHT BLUES WITH HAMMOND GAMBLE

FRIDAY 4 APRIL

Experience an intimate solo show from the world-class guitar and blues voice of Hammond Gamble. Charismatic singer songwriter Hammond has long been a feature of New Zealand’s live music scene. In a career spanning over five decades, he has delivered his distinctive vocals and guitar across the country.
Not to be missed!

WHEN: 7pm Friday 4 April
WHERE: The Woolshed, Te Awa Lifecare Village, 1866 Cambridge Road

CIRCUS IN A FLASH

SATURDAY 5 APRIL
Roll up, roll up, and run away with circus workshops for a day! Kids and families will love this opportunity to learn real circus skills from basics to advanced. This fun event brings a big box of circus equipment for all to try, and a professional tutor who performs as well as teaches. This workshop will be great for building confidence and co-ordination, flexibility and fitness.

WHEN: 10am-11.30am Saturday 5 April
WHERE: Cambridge Primary, 15 Wilson Street

THE BIG PLAY AND SING IN

SATURDAY 5 APRIL
Join Orchestras Central’s Rusty Player Orchestra and friends to play and sing your heart out. Musicians and singers of all levels are welcome to register and take part! It’s a relaxed, social, and fun way to enjoy great music.

The programme includes Sweet Caroline, Hallelujah, and The Sound of Silence. In the final half hour, singers and instrumentalists will unite to create beautiful music.

WHEN: 10.30 –12.15pm Saturday 5 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall

We welcome an audience:
The audience are welcome to attend for free.

CAMBRIDGE OPEN STUDIOS

SATURDAY 5 & SUNDAY 6 APRIL

Discover your PASSION FOR ART
on the Autumn Festival Art Trail.

Cambridge is rich in colour, art and galleries. Take a free, self-guided tour of artists’ studios and galleries.

Download the Cambridge Open Studios Artists List and Art Trail Map

Or pick up a copy at Paper Plus Cambridge (54 Victoria Street), Onyx (70 Alpha Street), Inspirit Gallery (360 Pencarrow Road, Tamahere) & Sinclair Barclay Gallery (59 Duke Street).

WHEN:
10am – 4pm Saturday 5 & Sunday 6 April

WHERE: Artists’ studios and galleries in and around Cambridge

FANTASY & FILM

SUNDAY 6 APRIL
Youth Orchestra Waikato presented by Orchestras Central
Conductors: Simon Brew, Catherine Polglase

This concert takes inspiration from iconic classical works that have become integral to popular culture, film, and even the often-unavoidable TV advert! From Ravel’s Boléro to the overture of The Barber of Seville, the quirky compositions of Henry Mancini (think The Pink Panther), as well as popular party pieces from some of the greatest operas, with guest soloists from Waikato University’s School of Music.

WHEN: 7pm Sunday 6 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall
TICKETS:
Adult: $16
Concession: $12 (Seniors, Unwaged, Community Services Card holders and Students)
Child under 18: Free
– Available online: www.humanitix.co.nz
– Or can be purchased with a booking fee from Cambridge i-site.

DICE & DISTRICTS

SATURDAY 5 APRIL
The Waikato Role-Playing Guild invites you to a day of tabletop role-playing! Try out Dungeons & Dragons, and other similar games. All equipment will be provided, including dice and pencils. We will have a morning and afternoon session, attend one or both sessions for only $5. Family and beginner friendly.
WHEN: 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm Sat 5 April
WHERE: Taylor Made Community Space, 22a Taylor Street
ENTRY: $5 at the door

COUNTRY TO CAMBRIDGE

SATURDAY 5 APRIL
Don’t miss this stellar line up of 3 talented homegrown country music acts who regularly play in NZ’s most prestigious country music festivals and award shows.:
– James Ray a beloved multi-award winning international performing and recording artist.
– The DCP a powerhouse of seasoned performers known for their electrifying stage presence and mind-blowing musicianship.
– Waikato Modern Country Duo Rowdy’s Rose, fresh back from the USA with 2 international awards.

WHEN: 3pm Saturday 5 April
WHERE: The Woolshed, Te Awa Lifecare Village, 1866 Cambridge Road
TICKETS: $25 from Paper Plus Cambridge or online at www.humanitix.co.nz

With support from: 

TANGO BY CANDLELIGHT

SATURDAY 5 APRIL
OCT Ensemble in collaboration with Aotango Quintet presented by Orchestras Central

Experience the enchanting world of tango and Piazzolla, brought to life through dance in the stunning candlelit setting of Cambridge Town Hall.

Enjoy the Aotango Quintet’s seamless fusion of world music and tango, blending eclectic styles with violinist Andrew Beer (APO Concertmaster), pianist Somi Kim (NZTrio), double bassist Gordon Hill (APO Section Principal), jazz guitarist Sam Swindells, and award-winning accordionist Grayson Masefield.
Aotango will also be joined by OCT Ensemble flautist Luca Manghi, percussionist Danny Collins, and vocalist Sarah Court, alongside renowned Tango dancers John Flowers (NZ Tango Champion) and Natallia Ramanchuk.

WHEN: 8pm Saturday 5 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall
TICKETS: A Reserve: $68 B Reserve: $58 C Reserve: $35 (refer Tango by Candlelight Seating Map).

Tickets: Online from www.humanitix.co.nz  
– Or can be purchased with a booking fee from Cambridge i-site.

‘HOW DO I FEEL?’ STORYTIME CONCERT

SUNDAY 6 APRIL
Orchestras Central with Kulios, led by Joe Harrop. A String Quartet Storytime concert based on the best-selling children’s book How Do I Feel? by New Zealand authors Rebekah Lipp and Craig Phillips. This “emotions dictionary” helps children find the words to express how they truly feel. Suitable for children aged 5 and up – and for those young at heart!
Violins: Joe Harrop, Hilary Hayes
Viola: Chris Nation Cello: Sarah Spence

WHEN: 11am–11.45am Sunday 6 April
WHERE: Cambridge Town Hall

TICKETS: General Admission $7.50:
– Available online from www.humanitix.co.nz
– Or can be purchased with a booking fee from Cambridge i-site.