Flavours of Plenty Festival Returns for Its Longest Season Yet

The Flavours of Plenty Festival is back for its fourth edition, running from 27 March to 13 April 2025 — the longest the event has run, stretching across 18 days after feedback from attendees calling for more time. The festival showcases the Bay of Plenty's food and beverage scene, with a focus on locally grown produce and the producers behind it.

Several Western Bay events are on the programme this year. Among the highlights is a Kōrero & Kai event at Otawhiwhi Marae in Bowentown, where guests will be welcomed with a pōwhiri before exploring the cultural significance of kai through hands-on storytelling with Te Whānau a Tauwhao. Avo Yum in Katikati is continuing its popular avocado orchard tours, while Matahui Gin Distillery will invite attendees to craft their own botanical gins.

Other local events include dumpling-making workshops with Johney's Dumplings at the Rising Tide in Ōmokoroa, a Highballing on the Shore cocktail session with Wilderkin Vodka, a Crop Swap and Food Fiesta hosted by Grow on Katikati, and a large celebration at Moore Park as part of the Katikati Festival of Cultures. Festival director Rae Baker said high satisfaction scores from both attendees and event partners reflected the genuine community benefit the festival delivers across the region. Tickets are available at events.flavoursofplentyfestival.com.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).