A celebration Highlife Festival, which I’ve lauded as one of the greatest smaller-scale festivals I’ve ever visited, is a festival I will definitely return to and recommend to anybody. Even festival goers, however, require assistance from time to time in order to maximize their festival experience and travel internationally.
To begin with, dress to impress
Highlife Festival advertises itself as “Matakana’s Ibiza.” Because of its slightly older clientele and less rambunctious crowd, it’s a fantastic festival for the more seasoned festival goer. Dress up a little for this occasion! This does not imply dressing up! Wear festival gear that is “too nice for R&V but too festivally for a night out on the town.” Highlife is an excellent occasion to put on your best festival outfit. Please wear a shirt or a nice T-shirt and chino shorts for this one; singlets, flip flops, and sports gear should be left at home!
Do not be bothered about “double parking”
Okay, so I just said to pre-drink before you come, but needing to buy a lot of drinks at once and spending your whole day balancing your beverages will not be an issue at Highlife! There were no lineups at the bars; they were short, fast, and easy to get to the front of. This eliminates the need to purchase many beverages at once; simply enjoy your drink and return when you’re ready for another!
Purchase your festival tickets in advance
As with other events, tickets must be purchased in advance. ‘Previous Minute Larrys’ were on Facebook hunting for additional tickets the last time Highlife sold out before the concert date. In general, the earlier you get your festival tickets, the cheaper they are!
Wear a sweater and a cap
As with other festivals, it’s bright and sunny throughout the day, but as the sun sets below the horizon, temps drop, and you’ll discover that even with a beer jacket, you’ll wish you’d packed an actual jacket. I always bring a hat and sunglasses for the day and a sweater or jacket for the evening.
Arrive early for buses or get a taxi/private transportation
At the end of every festival, buses are always a little full. If you want to take one of the festival buses, I recommend departing a little before the event ends and getting to the bus pick-up place early to avoid standing in line for a long time.
Why not organize your own private bus or taxi service? This is something I tried, and it’s a great option if you’re in a group.