Bullerfest 2025

The Buller Festival is a three-day whitewater kayaking and rafting event held annually on the Matakitaki and Buller rivers in Murchison, New Zealand. Since its inception 25 years ago, the Buller Festival has grown into the country’s largest whitewater event, attracting competitors from across New Zealand and around the world.

The Buller Festival is one of the most significant events held in the Murchison area each year. Usually a sleepy town, Murchison is located on the doorstep of some of New Zealand's finest paddling grounds. For one weekend a year, the festival doubles Murchison’s population. It is an event eagerly anticipated by both the local community and the wider whitewater paddling community.

Events at the Buller Festival are designed to encourage participation and cater to all levels of paddling ability, from beginners to elite athletes. The aim of these events is to "get people on the river," inspiring both competitors and spectators to share their passion for paddling.