january 1977 saw the community supporting the waikino music festival of rock, blues and culture, held on bicknels farm up the waitawheta valley. this festival event was run by the nambassa group who were originally based in the waikino village, prior to their move to waihi. proceeds from this event purchased a winter's supply of fuel for the aged residents of the village and towards the construction of a new post office after the 1981 flood.