The final countdown: Record 87 groups set to light up HuttFest 2026

The Hutt Valley is counting down to one of its biggest cultural events of the year as schools, early childhood centres and colleges put the finishing touches on performances for HuttFest 2026.

This year marks a record 87 school groups set to take the stage at Walter Nash Stadium as thousands of students prepare to showcase their culture, identity and creativity in front of packed crowds.

School halls are buzzing with intense preparation as performance groups are tightening routines, sorting costumes, refining transitions and preparing for their moment under the lights.

HuttFest, now in its 14th year, has grown into a major annual event showcasing the cultural talents of students from across the Wellington region.

Vailoa Tuita’alili is at the helm of this massive feat having led HuttFest for the past five years, she says the expansion is still about striving toward youth empowerment.

"Our focus has been about bringing the best stage for our kids to perform on," Tuita'alili tells Island Time.

"They deserve that big stage. They deserve the lights. They deserve all the videography. It's about uplifting them on stage in order for them to uplift their culture.".

HuttFest continues to honour the legacy and vision of its founders, the late Luana Leulua’i, and retired champion supporter Barbara Hey.

The event is backed by the Hutt City Council, Creative New Zealand, ONE Foundation, and Pacific Health Service Hutt Valley, along with local businesses who have pitched in with technical support, photography, and more.

Watch Vailoa Tuita'alili's full interview below.

Tuita’alili says that behind the scenes the team is grounded in a strong faith-based environment. While she has had to scale back her crew this year, she believes it has a more focused and streamlined approach to delivering the best event yet.

HuttFest fosters a deep sense of community resilience during challenging times.

Tuita’alili says this event serves as a vital platform where non-Pacific, Pacific, and Māori tamariki and rangatahi stand shoulder-to-shoulder, celebrating who they are.

"In terms of how big we get, it doesn't matter," Tuita'alili says. "The key thing is that we just keep providing that stage for them. Be prepared to cheer on all of these kids, they work hard to get up on that stage.

“HuttFest is about children. It is about having fun, it's absolutely about the community as well."

HuttFest takes place from 22 to 26 June. With full houses expected, whānau should book tickets early as door sales may not be available.