2026’s Festival Information
Join us and enjoy the magic of Hot Air Ballooning, where balloons and pilots from around NZ and the World take to the Waikato Skies.
Whether you join us for our morning flying events at Innes Common Hamilton, be amazed by The ZURU Nightglow or just pop outside in your jammies each morning to wave as our balloons float by, this event is for you.
The ZURU Nightglow is a FREE ticketed event.
HAMILTON CITY COUNCIL OPENING FIESTA
Date: Saturday 21 March 2026
Time: 7am
Location: Innes Common, Hamilton Lake
FREE, no ticket required.
THE ZURU NIGHTGLOW
Date: Saturday 21 March 2026
Gates open 4pm | Gates close 8pm
Location: University of Waikato
FREE, ticket required.
BALLOONS VISIT SOUTH WAIKATO
Date: Tuesday 24 March 2026
Time: 5:30-10pm
Location: War Memorial Sports Ground, Tokoroa
FREE, no ticket required.
LOVE THE CENTRE WALK-THRU BALLOON
Date: Saturday 28 March 2026
Time: 1-4pm
Location: Garden Place, Hamilton Central
FREE, no ticket required.
All Festival Events
Morning Flights and Competitive Flying
Pilots are competing in exciting daily challenges, showcasing their skill in navigating the skies.
ZURU Nightglow
A fun family event open to for all public to attend. The ZURU Nightglow is a FREE ticketed event.
Balloons Visit South Waikato
A free, family-friendly evening in Tokoroa with hot air balloons, live entertainment and food trucks.
The Base Basket Burn
The Base have teamed up with Balloons Over Waikato again to bring the Basket Burn to the Base.
Love the Center Walk-Thru Balloon
Head into the heart of the city and step inside a real hot air balloon at Garden Place.