The sound of Christmas is set to fill Haiku Reserve as the Katikati Concert Band hosts its second Carols at Haiku event.

Carols at Haiku was introduced in 2023 as a way for the band to give back to the community, creating a relaxed summer atmosphere where families and friends could gather and sing along to festive favourites.

This year’s event features the Mural Town Singers joining the Concert Band to bring a mix of choir harmonies and instrumental arrangements.

Event co-ordinator Karen Goh said the goal was simple.

“We want the community to feel a sense of belonging and pride,” Goh said.

“Carols at Haiku is about creating a space where people can come together, celebrate the season, and enjoy live music in a beautiful setting.”

The free event was supported by the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund, a partnership between Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council, TECT and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.

Support also came from Katch Katikati and volunteers from the Katikati Lions Club.

Carols at Haiku will take place on Saturday, December 13, from 4pm to 6pm at Haiku Reserve.

Visitors were encouraged to bring chairs or picnic rugs, snacks and their singing voices, with volunteers on hand to accept donations and QR codes available for carol lyrics.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council community and strategic relationships manager Jodi Rickard said the event was a great way to celebrate the festive season.

“Come along with your family and friends, enjoy listening to Christmas tunes, and join in the carols,” Rickard said.

“It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season and enjoy one of Katikati’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.”

With attendance expected to reach into the hundreds, Carols at Haiku is fast becoming a highlight of Katikati’s festive calendar.

– Supplied content