WOMAD is pressing pause in 2026 – a “purposeful rest” in the hopes of being able to deliver WOMAD in 2027 and beyond. Organisers say rising costs and a tougher sponsorship market mean a year off is the responsible call.
TAFT, the team behind WOMAD at New Plymouth’s Bowl of Brooklands, says costs have jumped sharply since 2020, while ticket prices have been held down during the cost-of-living squeeze. That gap has become hard to bridge without risking the festival’s future.
Sponsorship has also shifted. With parts of the local economy changing and many funders refocusing on social initiatives, it’s been harder to lock in the private support big events rely on.
TAFT says WOMAD 2025 drew big crowds and glowing feedback. The rest year is about regrouping, not giving up – a reset to make sure the festival returns on firm financial footing.
Since 2003, WOMAD is reported to have pumped millions into the region and turned March into a showcase for local hospitality, accommodation and suppliers. Venture Taranaki says the value to the district can’t be overstated and is looking at other events to keep visitors coming while WOMAD rests.
Supporters like TSB have backed the pause, and will stay in talks about what comes next.
