A twice postponed festival has finally came to life at Waihi Beach.

The Anzac Bay/Waipaopao Summer Kick-Off Festival went ahead despite the unpredictable rain forecast and it was a magical day on the bay on Saturday, attracting about 600 – 700 visitors.

The event started at 2pm with a karakia and welcome by Reon Tuanau and Garston Smith of Te Whānau ā Tauwhao of Otawhiwhi.

Reon spoke of the significance of the site of Anzac Bay/Waipaopao and encouraged the crowd to be kaitiaki/carers of this beautiful whenua.

He also shared the stories of the Waipaopao, including how it was once named Katikati and the story of how and why.

Reon Tuanau. Photo: Shaq Coulter.

Then the Waihi Beach school junior kapa haka group performed a powerful and moving performance, proud to be on the stage in their hometown and at one their favourite spots.

Then the live music line-up started with the incredible Hamilton-based band, Looking for Alaska.

They covered some crowd favourites and kicked off the festival vibe. They were followed by Tauranga musos Matty Buxton and Regan Perry, whose reggae and kiwi roots' tunes perfectly complemented the chilled afternoon and setting.

The final act, local Waihi musician Sarah Spicer was joined by Liam Ryan and Amir Yussoff whose soulful sounds finished off the festival.

In addition, kids were entertained by fabulous yoga and art workshops that were centred around the natural ambience and setting of Anzac Bay, as well as festival face painting.

Festival goers enjoying the Anzac Bay Summer Kick Off. Photo: Lousie Lambert.

The outdoor food section complete with bunting and lanterns in the trees brought a real festival feel to the area.

'The collaboration between Waihi Beach Events & Promotions and Te Whānau ā Tauwhao enabled the community and visitors to come together in a significant spot here at Waipaopao, to learn more of the history and celebrate the start of the summer season,” says Reon Tuanau of Otawhiwhi Marae.

'The kaupapa around this event is so positive, we can encourage our tamariki to care for our whenua for the future.”