Funkyside with heart: Dementia Lakes takes centre stage at Rotorua’s Lakeside Concert

Saturday night [22 March] on the Rotorua lakefront was filled with music, lights, and heartfelt community support as Dementia Lakes took its place as the official Charity Partner for the 2025 Rotorua Lakeside Concert.

With the theme Funkyside – Gettin’ in the Groove, the Village Green transformed into a vibrant celebration of local talent, whānau, and aroha. An estimated 17,000 people danced, picnicked, and shared stories under a warm evening sky – all while raising awareness and funds for people living with dementia | mate wareware across the Lakes region.

The line-up was a who’s who of Kiwi music, from Annie Crummer and Lavina Williams to Rotorua’s own Baedyn Kiore. The kapa haka group Te Hekenga ā Rangi welcomed the crowd with mana and pride, while the Lakeside Choir – made up of students from Rotorua Boys’ and Girls’ High Schools – lifted spirits with every note. The fireworks finale to Get Lucky had the whole city looking up in awe.

Amid the music and festivities, volunteers from Dementia Lakes stood at the gates, collecting koha, offering resources, and listening to touching stories from attendees – many of whom shared personal connections to dementia. Between the donation buckets, EFTPOS machines in the VIP area, and QR codes, more than $3,000 was raised, with final totals still to come.

“Thank you, Rotorua Lakeside attendees, for your kindness and generosity, and for the opportunity to kōrero,” says Cathy Cooney, CE of Dementia New Zealand. “This wonderful event gave people the space to talk about their experiences — something we know helps reduce stigma and build community understanding.”

Carol Fisher, Chair of the Northern Region Board, echoed that sentiment. “There was such warmth and generosity. People were genuinely interested in our mahi and eager to show their support. The professionalism of the show and the welcoming spirit of everyone involved made it a really special evening.”

A huge thank you to the Rotorua Lakeside Concert Trust, event organisers, artists, kapa haka groups, and the incredible volunteers who gave their time. Ngā mihi nui also to every person who donated, asked a question or shared their story. Together, you’re helping to ensure dementia support is accessible, compassionate, and visible in every part of our community.

Find out more about Dementia Lakes.