VIP Day remains a private invitation-only event and is not open to the general public
Originally launched in Auckland more than 20 years ago, Funfest will celebrate a major milestone in January 2027, marking ten years in South Auckland with its biggest free family event ever. From 14-17 January 2027, Funfest will celebrate a decade of creating unforgettable memories for Auckland families by delivering free entry, free rides, free parking and free entertainment to hundreds of thousands of tamariki and whānau.
What began as a family-focused community event has grown into one of New Zealand’s largest free family festivals, bringing communities together in the heart of South Auckland and ensuring cost is never a barrier to participation.
At a time when many families continue to feel the pressure of rising living costs, Funfest remains committed to providing an experience where every major attraction remains completely free.
Since establishing its home in Manukau in 2017, Funfest has welcomed more than 550,000 visitors, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone event in South Auckland’s summer calendar.
“Reaching 22 years with ten years just in South Auckland is a significant milestone for everyone who has been part of the Funfest journey,” said Funfest Founder Robert Blake.
“Funfest has brought families and communities together while ensuring every child and family has access to an unforgettable day out regardless of their circumstances.
“We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved alongside our sponsors, community partners, volunteers and supporters who have helped make Funfest what it is today.
“What makes Funfest special is that it remains completely free. At a time when many families are facing financial pressures, providing an event where cost is not a barrier has never been more important.”
10 YEARS OF VIP DAY
One of Funfest’s most meaningful legacies over the past decade has been the growth of its annual VIP Day.
Established in 2017, VIP Day provides children with special needs and disabilities, together with their parents, caregivers and support networks, the opportunity to experience Funfest in a safe, welcoming and accessible environment ahead of the public opening.
Over the past ten years, more than 50,000 children with special needs and disabilities, alongside their families and support networks, have experienced VIP Day.
Supported by hundreds of schools, disability support services, community organisations and partner agencies, VIP Day has opened the gates of Funfest to tens of thousands of children with special needs and disabilities, ensuring they and their whānau can participate in the magic of Funfest in a safe and supportive environment.
What began as a commitment to accessibility and inclusion has evolved into a defining part of the Funfest kaupapa and remains central to the event’s identity.
As VIP Day celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2027, Funfest remains firmly committed to ensuring children with special needs and disabilities continue to enjoy the same opportunities for fun, connection and unforgettable memories as every other family attending the event.
“For many tamariki and their whānau, VIP Day is more than just a day at Funfest. It’s an opportunity to experience joy, inclusion and a genuine sense of belonging in an environment designed especially for them,” said VIP Day Executive Producer and Funfest Trustee Jonda Mahanga.
“VIP Day changes lives in small but meaningful ways. It gives tamariki who face daily challenges the chance to simply be kids, have fun and create treasured memories with those who support them.
“Behind every VIP Day registration is a family story. We invite media to join us on the day to meet the tamariki, parents and caregivers whose lives are touched by this unique event and help share their stories with Aotearoa.”
As Funfest enters its second decade in South Auckland, organisers remain focused on their founding vision of creating a free, inclusive and accessible event that brings communities together and ensures every child can experience the magic of Funfest.
“As we celebrate ten years in South Auckland, we’re not just reflecting on what Funfest has achieved. We’re looking ahead to the next decade of creating free, accessible and inclusive experiences that bring communities together and put smiles on the faces of tamariki and whānau,” Blake said.
FUNFEST BY THE NUMBERS
- 22 Years of Funfest in Auckland
- 10 Years in South Auckland (2027)
- 550,000+ Visitors Welcomed in Manukau Since 2017
- 50,000+ Children with Special Needs and Disabilities and Their Families Welcomed Through VIP Day
- Hundreds of Schools, Support Services and Community Organisations Supporting VIP Day
FUNFEST 2027 FEATURES
- AT Transport Kids Learn to Ride Programme
- Wonder Wai Discovery Centre presented by Watercare
- Main Arena Activities presented by Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi
- New Zealand’s Biggest Free LEGO Show with All Blocks NZ and Toyworld Manukau
- NZ Cosplay Club’s Outpost 42 Celebrating 50 Years of Star Wars
- Wellness Zone Connecting Communities Through Hauora, Health and Wellbeing
- Free Karaoke, Prizes and Live Entertainment Featuring Community Group Performances
- Free Face Painting
- Mahons Amusements – All Rides Free
PROUDLY PRESENTED BY OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
- Trillian Trust Serious About Your Community
- Wiri Licensing Trust
- Tip Top The Official Ice Cream of Funfest
- Matson Shipping The Logistics Behind the Funfest Magic
- AT Transport Presenting the Kids Learn to Ride Programme
- Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi The Heart of Funfest and Presenting Partner of the Main Arena
- Watercare Presenting the Wonder Wai Discovery Centre
Local Board Supporters
- Howick Local Board
- Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board
- Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board
EVENT DETAILS
Funfest 2027
14-17 January 2027
10:00am – 6:00pm Daily
Due Drop Events Centre, 770 Great South Road, Manukau, Auckland
- Free Entry
- Free Rides
- Free Parking
- Free Entertainment
- Free Face Painting
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES
Media are invited to attend VIP Day and the public event to capture interviews, photography and video opportunities.
Representatives from Funfest, community partners, volunteers, families and VIP Day participants will be available for interview by arrangement.
Photo and video opportunities will be available throughout the event, including VIP Day, ride activations, community performances and family activities.
Please note VIP Day on 13 January is a private invitation-only event for children with special needs and disabilities, their families and support networks. It is not open to the general public. Media attendance is welcome by prior arrangement.
Media Release on 25 October 2026
Media Contact
Doug Te Moni, Funfest
Event co-ordinator
Phone: 027 208 5492
Email: doug@funfest.co.nz
Website: https://www.funfest.co.nz/