
Early ticket sales were tracking significantly ahead of last year, with the event shaping up to be the biggest yet.
Spokesman Jon Holmes said the festival had built a strong reputation for delivering a unique, immersive wellness experience grounded in the natural beauty of the Mackenzie Basin.
Mr Holmes said this year’s programme continued that legacy.
"[We are] bringing together an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers and a diverse range of workshops, talks, and activities designed to support wellbeing from the inside out."
The event was South Island’s signature wellness weekend, offering inspiration, movement, food and connection.
He said this year’s keynote speaker lineup featured performance coach Dave Wood — drawing on his background as an intensive care paramedic and high-performance mentor.
Another keynote would be delivered by Dr Denise Quinlan, one of the country’s leading voices in positive psychology and co-founder of the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience, who would explore how to build sustainable wellbeing practices in personal and professional lives.
Adventure racing legend Bob McLachlan would delve into the power of purpose, sharing stories from a life of extreme exploration and resilience.
Rounding out the lineup was Bevan Smith, founder and owner of Riverstone Kitchen near Oamaru, who would demonstrate how to make his favourite hot smoked salmon with a seasonal salad and seared squid with Asian greens.
"Bevan is passionate about showcasing the best produce on offer and is a strong advocate of locally-sourced and sustainable options."
He said festival-goers could expect to enjoy sunrise yoga by the lake, cold-water plunges, foraging walks, guided stargazing experiences, and locally sourced food.
He said the schedule was crafted to help people slow down, connect with themselves and others, and leave feeling recharged and inspired.
The event would take place from May 16-18, and tickets are available on Eventbrite.
For full programme details, visit breathetekapo.com.
—APL