This lively programme brings together local performers and community groups for a celebration of pipe band favourites, Highland dancing, choral music, Scottish country dancing, sea shanties and brass band classics.

The show features the North Otago Highland Pipe Band, Kim Mavor’s Highland Dancers, St Kevin’s Choir, The Balmoral Scottish Country Dance Group, Dougall McLachlan, The Barnacle Brothers, The Oamaru Garrison Band, The Reveal, and guest performers.

Audiences can look forward to well-known tunes including Amazing Grace, Highland Cathedral, Danny Boy, Leaving Liverpool and On the Road to Passchendaele, alongside energetic dance items such as the Highland Fling, Jig, Hornpipe and Sword Dance. With a grand finale bringing performers together on stage, this special afternoon promises colour, pageantry and plenty of toe-tapping entertainment.

Whether you have a love of Scottish music or simply enjoy a vibrant community performance, this variety show offers something for all ages.

Strike up the pipes! North Otago Highland Pipe Band celebrates 125 years of music, pride and community spirit with a special variety concert at the Ōamaru Opera House. 

One of New Zealand’s earliest pipe bands, it first met at St Andrew’s Hall, Ōamaru, on 24 October 1901, with 24 pipers and four drummers reported in the Oamaru Mail. 

By 1902, the band had purchased its first uniform in McLean of Duart tartan, honouring first Chieftain John McLean.

Across the decades, the band has built halls, lit pathways in Queens Gardens and kept the pipes playing through generations. 

Now, they mark this milestone in true festival style. 

Join them for local talent, toe-tapping entertainment, pipes, drums, pageantry and a heartfelt thank you to the community that has supported them for 125 years.