The Tairāwhiti region has a proud Gospel heritage that stretches back almost 200 years.

Over that time generations of our people have been inspired by the Gospel to develop their whānau and communities, express themselves through art and music, build churches, schools and marae, develop charitable organisations and businesses, and make positive contributions locally and globally.

The Gospel Roots Festival is a celebration of the rich gospel heritage of Tairāwhiti, of Aotearoa-New Zealand, Polynesia and beyond.

Its purpose is to inspire and uplift whānau and communities by showcasing this heritage to the region, the nation, and to the world.

We believe in promoting the positive principles of the Gospel, like aroha, peace, and joy, without coercion or obligation.

We seek to build an event that is open, safe, and welcoming to all people whether they are church-fanatics or not.

We’re also not ashamed of our Gospel heritage – we’re proud of the incredible joy, healing, creativity, and sense of purpose that it’s brought to so many people over so many generations.

That’s why we’re taking the time to celebrate the best that our Gospel heritage has to offer, and to let the Gospel speak for itself.

Festival Overview

DATE: 15-18 January 2016
VENUE: Beachside, Gisborne City
FEATURES:

• Live music performances from domestic & international artists
• 8 champion and pioneer Kapa Haka teams
• Inspirational Speakers & Workshop Leaders
• Art Exhibitions
• Creative Marketplaces
• Festival Village with beachside food-court and vendors
• Fun attractions & activities for the whole family
• Beachside Camping
• Proudly smoke-free, drug-free, and alcohol-free.

Gospel Roots is an initiative of Te Pīhopatanga o Te Tairāwhiti (The Māori Anglican Church in Tairāwhiti) alongside the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu.

upporting partners include Te Rau Theological College, The Tamararo Kapa Haka Festival, The House of Breakthrough (Gisborne), and Equippers Church (Gisborne).