Experience the Magic of Jazz & Blues
About the Festival
An unforgettable weekend of live music, culture, art and community in the heart of Ōamaru’s historic Victorian precinct.
Turn Up the Volume, and Let the Music Take Over
The Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival began in a conversation amongst a few enthusiastic local musicians, back in 2011.
Since its inception, it has grown in scope and popularity, and was named Regional Supreme Winner for the Trust Power Community Awards in 2017.
This special and unique festival showcases FREE performances in Ōamaru’s cafes, bars, restaurants, and other venues and outdoors spaces, filling the streets with enriched, vibrant musical experiences against the backdrop of our historic town.
The 2026 Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival Committee.
The festival provides platforms for performance, participation and workshops for all age groups. Our goal is to bring people together in a joyful, creative and connected atmosphere, where each person can craft their own unique experience of music over the weekend — whether they just want to listen, dance, play or learn.
The Harbour Street Jazz & Blues Festival is organised by a committee of devoted volunteers, who work year-round to bring jazz and blues music alive and gather world-class artists in an enriched musical experience for all Waitaki residents and visitors to enjoy. The festival is made possible by donations from our generous sponsors and funding partners.
Feel the Beat
About Ōamaru and the Waitaki Region
Centred in Ōamaru’s famous Victorian precinct, the Harbour Street Jazz & Blues Festival showcases world-class musical talent set among the history, architecture and natural beauty of Ōamaru and the Waitaki Region.
About Our Place
Ōamaru is the largest town in the Waitaki District; most famous for its penguin colony and Whitestone architecture of the Victorian Precinct – but that’s just the beginning of what our region has to offer.
Travel to Ōamaru
Getting here is easy! Jump on a plane or hop in the car. Ōamaru is centrally located to several international and regional airports and to urban centres of the South Island of New Zealand.
Find Accommodation
Find your perfect Waitaki getaway. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic appeal of camping or the refined elegance of historic accommodations, our region has something for everyone.