F.A.W.C! Winter warmers are here

12 April 2022

Winter F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic is back and hotter than ever with more than 45 events running throughout Hawke’s Bay in June.

And after periods of isolation and an exhaustion of homecooked meals, foodies from all over the country will be in for a treat as the ninth annual Winter F.A.W.C! programme drops today.

Complete with a Foodie Film Festival, incredible chef collaborations and workshops on everything from how to make bao buns to how to debone a chicken, this year’s Winter F.A.W.C! is set to sizzle.

Once again running across the four weekends in June (June 3-5, June 10-12, June 17-19 and June 24-26), Winter F.A.W.C! is the perfect antidote to the cooler months. Event ticket prices range from $15 to $260, with several walk-up events planned throughout the month as well.

Newcomers to F.A.W.C! include Wairoa’s Eastend Café and Manawa Store, who are holding a joint event that embraces the bounty of Hawke’s Bay, and Esk Valley’s Cone and Flower, the home of Petane Wines and Zeelandt Brewery, who have several events designed to make the most of local produce and international cuisines.

Among the programme’s many highlights is Black Barn Bistro and Craggy Range’s collaboration dinner, A Hawke’s Bay Winter, which sees two of the region’s leading chefs team up to deliver a stunning Hawke’s Bay menu; Let’s Play Chicken, where St George’s Francky Godinho teams up with Farmhouse Kitchen for a workshop and three course dining experience that’ll warm you from inside out; and Mangapapa Hotel’s ode to Matariki, a stunning five course menu that draws inspiration from the stars of the Matariki cluster.  

New Zealand’s favourite foodie Nici Wickes is back for an intimate morning tea where she will share recipes from her new cookbook, A Quiet Kitchen, while Wellington’s burger expert Simon Pepping, of Egmont St Eatery, Rogue Burger and The Catering Studio, joins the team at Peak House for an evening of sangria, burgers and local DJs.

The Foodie Film Festival at Napier’s MTG includes five incredible films including The Story of Champagne, Pig, and A Trip to Spain. And those after a more intimate movie-going experience, will be pleased to know that Smith & Sheth are back with their Wine Studio Cinema Series as well.

Seasonal produce will certainly have its moment with five truffle events, at The Manse and Wallingford in Central Hawke’s Bay, running over the course of the month, and Te Mata Fig’s event An Ode to the Fig which comes complete with traditional figgy pudding!

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said the organisation was pleased to be organising the ninth Winter F.A.W.C! after a tough period for the region’s hospitality, food and beverage and event specialists.

“After a difficult two years, there’s no better time for a celebration and we can’t wait to see foodies from all over New Zealand experiencing Hawke’s Bay’s incredible chefs, restaurateurs, venues, producers, artisans and event specialists.  

“We are thrilled to see a foodie film festival and a fantastic workshop series included within Winter F.A.W.C!, showcasing how food and beverage industries permeate throughout so much of Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy. What’s more, we have events that celebrate local food, wine, beer, produce and everything in between. It is set to be a magnificent month of savouring the very best of Hawke’s Bay, Food and Wine Country.”

The programme launched online at www.fawc.co.nz on April 12, 2022. F.A.W.C! database members will have special pre-sale access to buy tickets on Wednesday, April 27th with tickets for the general public available from Thursday April 28th at 9am via the F.A.W.C! website www.fawc.co.nz.

Sign up for F.A.W.C! presales at www.fawc.co.nz.

F.A.W.C! is organised by Hawke’s Bay Tourism and sponsored by Hawke’s Bay BMW, Air New Zealand, Hastings District Council and Napier City Council.

Sir Graeme Avery named F.A.W.C!’s first Hawke’s Bay Legend

15 March 2022

Hawke’s Bay Tourism, in conjunction with Cuisine Magazine, is delighted to announce the inaugural F.A.W.C! Hawke’s Bay Legend is Sir Graeme Avery.

Sir Graeme – along with fellow nominees Sam and Mary Orton, Kate Radburnd, Jeremy Rameka and Kim Thorp – were to be honoured at an event on the opening night of Summer F.A.W.C! at The Old Church. The January event could not go ahead due to the move to ‘red’ on the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

From an incredible field of dedicated and talented food and beverage stars, Sir Graeme’s expansive and long-lasting impact on and amplification of Hawke’s Bay’s reputation as New Zealand’s premier food and wine destination saw him named the inaugural F.A.W.C! Hawke’s Bay Legend.

Sir Graeme has received a stunning award made by traditional Māori carver Phil Belcher.

Sam and Mary Orton, Kate Radburnd, Jeremy Rameka and Kim Thorp have been presented with smaller pounamu carvings from Phil Belcher.

Sir Graeme said he was honoured and thrilled to receive the inaugural F.A.W.C! Hawke’s Bay Legends Award and will treasure the Māori carved trophy by Phil Belcher.

“The award reflects the support of all the great people I have worked with in establishing the Hawke’s Bay Food Group, Hawke’s Bay Wine Country Tourism, the New Zealand Food and Wine Tourism Marketing Network, and Sileni winery and visitor centre.

“Thank you to Cuisine and Hawke’s Bay Tourism for sponsoring the award and congratulations to all the other nominees, all of whom I greatly respect and know, and have worked with over the past years. Keep up the great work for the region,” he added.

Sir Graeme Avery is well known as the co-founder of Sileni Estates winery and as a founder of the acclaimed Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market, which was instrumental in mobilising the national farmers’ market movement. He also led the formation of the original Hawke’s Bay Wine Country Tourism Association and has worked informally with Ngati Kahungnunu on potential projects throughout the years.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism, who announced the search for a Food Legend last year, established the award as a means to honour those visionaries who have helped shape Food and Wine Country into the amazing playground for foodies that it is today. The talent recognised within last summer’s nomination process ran the gamut of artisan producers, chefs, restaurateurs, winemakers, farmers and growers – and included event specialists, innovators and entrepreneurs within the food and drink category.

The six finalists and eventual winner were chosen by a panel that comprised Sarah Meikle, Chief Executive of Wellington Culinary Events Trust, Kelli Brett, Editor at Cuisine Magazine, and George Hickton, Chairman of Hawke’s Bay Tourism.

It was difficult to name just one ‘legend’ for the inaugural award, says Kelli Brett of Cuisine Magazine.

"Each and every one of our finalists have made a lasting, momentous impact on the landscape of food tourism – not just in Hawke’s Bay, but across New Zealand,” says Brett.

“By creating this award, Hawke’s Bay Tourism have recognised that the people behind what we cook, eat and drink are the true drivers of the New Zealand food & drink story and a super-important ingredient in the mix. They are the movers and shakers that have led their communities, inspiring and motivating the good people of their towns to step up, collaborate and get involved. So much work from so many passionate and dedicated visionaries has gone into making Hawke’s Bay into the amazing playground for foodies that it is today.

“It is so very clear that Sir Graeme has been and still is a great inspiration and a key motivator within so many layers of the development of Food and Wine Country,” she says.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton say the award will become a regular component within the Summer F.A.W.C! festival.

“Every year we celebrate Hawke’s Bay food, wine, beverages, chefs, artisans, leaders and producers during F.A.W.C!, and Hawke’s Bay Legends will be now be a important component of that. We hope to recognise those people whose talent and hard work have contributed to this delicious landscape that we have the pleasure to work within today.”

The award finalists were nominated for their extensive work and talent, with written nominations saying:

• For Sam & Mary Orton: “Where we are heading now – celebrating Hawke’s Bay’s growers and producers outdoors under some sort of shade with a glass of wine in one hand and a delicious bite-sized something in the other – all started with Orton.”
• For Kate Radburnd: “Kate works hard every day to lead, inspire and advocate for Hawke’s Bay and the wine industry. I can think of no better person to be acknowledged as a Hawke’s Bay Legend.”
• For Jeremy Rameka: “In creating Pacifica all those years ago, Jeremy also reminded us of our special place in the world, and his food always reflects that.”
• And for Kim Thorp: “A true pioneer with the establishment of Black Barn and its wine, food and accommodation offerings that are of supreme quality.”

Sir Graeme Avery’s purpose-made sculpture combines matai wood, salvaged from the Tukituki River and cut to represent the iconic silhouette of Te Kauwae-a-Māui / Cape Kidnappers landform, says Phil Belcher. The sculpture includes a pounamu in the shape of Te Matau-a-Māui, a fishhook, while the full piece is a symbol of Māui’s tenacity and innovation ‘fishing up’ (navigating to) Aotearoa’s islands, he says.

Further information about the award, finalists and winner can be found at https://www.fawc.co.nz/hawkes-bay-legend/

Phased border reopening good news for Hawke’s Bay visitor economy

3 February 2022

Today’s announcement on a phased border reopening is fantastic news for the region’s visitor economy, says Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton.

“This is the news that many within Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy have been waiting for. It gives us a date to work towards and hold on until,” says Saxton.

“The first stage of the opening will see a wave of families and friends reunited, which has always been a critical component to Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy. But also, there are also those within the tourism industry here that are waiting to see their loved ones, so like many other families the end of February will bring much joy.

“As we move through the stages of border reopening, the next big thing for our industries will be the return of those who can bolster our workforces. Hospitality, tourism and our food and beverage producers are in desperate need of skilled workers so again, having a date to hold on to will provide considerable relief.

“From July at the latest, our industry can once again welcome international manuhiri, who are vaccinated, to the region, which is fantastic news. Although July isn’t traditionally when Hawke’s Bay sees a high number of international visitors, this timing allows us to ease back into it, further restock our workforces and gear up for a fantastic summer season and a full reopening for vaccinated visitors from October.

“July will also allow for business travel. We will see travel for meetings, conferences, incentives and hopefully at some stage, events; all of which, are a key element to our region’s visitor economy and one that is critical in sustaining many of the wonderful assets that Hawke’s Bay locals get to enjoy.”

Conferences and events will no doubt need to feel confidence that the country will be at the orange or green traffic light level before they invest too heavily in attracting international delegates or attendees for events where more than 100 people are anticipated, says Saxton.

“Of course, this also opens the potential for people to travel out of New Zealand, which might impact on our domestic visitation. However, an increased demand and desire for travel as a whole, will assist in a deeper recovery of the sector, including travel around Hawke’s Bay and New Zealand, and to New Zealand from Australia and beyond.” 

Your Central Hawke's Baycation awaits

6 December 2021

Planning your Central Hawke’s Baycation has never been easier thanks to a new online resource that showcases the very best of this spectacular part of Food and Wine Country.

Whether you’re planning a day trip to one of the district’s secluded white-sand beaches, an overnight hike in the Ruahine Ranges or a weekend’s ramble through the charming towns and villages of Central Hawke’s Bay, there are many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered at www.centralhawkesbaycation.com.

Immerse yourself in experiences unique to Central Hawke’s Bay, discover a rich tapestry of Māori history and culture, as well as historic homesteads and villages that tell a tale of times gone by. Bike or walk along the recently expanded Tukituki Trail – an undulating limestone track that runs alongside the picturesque Tukituki River – or feel the thrill at one of the district’s well-established mountain bike parks.

It wouldn’t be Food and Wine Country without a list of the most delicious places to eat and drink, and centralhawkesbaycation.com delivers. Discover the eateries that locals frequent, devour mouth-watering cheese scones, get a caffeine fix from hidden coffee nooks, and enjoy the best burgers in town before taking in the peaceful surroundings at one of the district’s sumptuous accommodation providers.

And with itineraries that travel from Country to Coast, high into the hills of the Ruahine Ranges and along The Road Less Travelled, your Central Hawke’s Baycation is ready and waiting.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Mayor Alex Walker says: “Central Hawke's Bay is a unique blend of what makes rural New Zealand so special. I'll see you at the beach or on a cycle trail!"

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton says he is excited for Kiwis to discover the hidden gems of Central Hawke’s Bay.

“Central Hawke’s Bay is a really special part of Food and Wine Country and one that we are excited to showcase within this new campaign. Central Hawke’s Bay encourages visitors to get back to nature, through walking, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, swimming and diving, while its towns and villages, bursting with boutique shopping and eateries, encourage people to linger.

“Our Central Hawke's Baycation platform will be supported by a targeted media plan to connect potential visitors from the lower North Island, as well as those in the wider Hawke’s Bay region. The campaign will kick off early December and run throughout summer.”

Discover everything you need to know about Central Hawke’s Bay at www.centralhawkesbaycation.com.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism announces fresh plan to promote region’s cycleways

28 October 2021

Hawke’s Bay Tourism plans to harness the significant appeal of the Hawke’s Bay Trails to develop a
multi-day touring cycling proposition that will become a major drawcard to the region.

Developed in conjunction with interested operators and stakeholders, the new multi-day Hawke’s
Bay cycle trail proposition will combine with the best of the region’s food and wine visitor
experiences and will be promoted to visitors from mid-2022. The new year-round product will
replace the one-day Big Easy event.

Hamish Saxton, Chief Executive of Hawke’s Bay Tourism, says developing and promoting a multi-day
touring product in conjunction with local operators will allow Hawke’s Bay Tourism to increase
marketing efforts of the region’s cycleways as a year-round attraction rather than via a one-off
event.

“We are dialling up our support of the Hawke’s Bay Trails because we truly believe they can compete
with the best in the country, such as the iconic Alps to Ocean and Otago Central Rail Trail.”

“However, The Big Easy event doesn’t do that for us. It has been a wonderful, well-loved event, that
has achieved what it set out to achieve and now it’s time for something new – a year-round product
that is developed in conjunction with local operators.”

Since 2013, Hawke’s Bay Tourism’s cycle trails marketing activity has been largely focused on the Big
Easy event. However, an independent review, commissioned by Hawke’s Bay Tourism and concluded
last month, found that The Big Easy had achieved what it had set out to do.

“The Big Easy had little capacity to grow and, as a one-day event, there isn’t a flow-on visitor-spend
benefit throughout the remainder of the year.”

Research indicates that there is further potential for visitors to Hawke’s Bay to spend more time on
the cycle trails, says Saxton.

“This new plan will allow Hawke’s Bay Tourism to bring more visitors to Hawke’s Bay, getting them
to stay longer and attract more visitor dollars too. It’s a winning combination that will create even
more reasons for visitors to choose Hawke’s Bay over other domestic destinations.”

“Hawke’s Bay is a short distance from numerous large populations, meaning a Hawke’s Bay trail ride
is an easy and accessible holiday experience.

“Over the next few months, we will work with interested operators to develop this offering and
hope to have more information on what our Hawke’s Bay cycle trails multi-day tour product will look
like in the New Year,” says Saxton. “Watch this space, because we are excited for what is to come.”

Hawke’s Bay Tourism multi-day cycle journey objectives:

• Create the identity of a multi-day food and wine country loop by cycle
• Stop off at markets and wineries, food producers and artisans
• Stay in multiple destinations enroute
• Support and grow local businesses along the trails
• Support and grow cycle hire businesses
• Support the environment (explore Food and Wine Country by cycle, thus reducing carbon
footprint)
• Increase length of stay and visitor spend

Roger Coleman, co-owner of Tākaro Trails, an award-winning Hawke’s Bay cycle tours company, says
he is excited to see the official multi-day route developed.

“This is exactly what we need in Hawke’s Bay. Cycling in Hawke’s Bay is an amazing experience. We
have some of the best trails in New Zealand, with fantastic food and wine, and remarkable weather.
It makes for a great holiday and with the advance of e-bikes that market is now wide open.”

“Three or four years ago, it was really only hardcore cyclists who were interested in multi-day,
cycling holidays; now everyone is interested. Retirees come mid-week for several days, excited to
spend a few days on the trail. We know from our own bookings and enquiries that the demand is
already there, and this gives us a chance to capture that low hanging fruit.”

Coleman says long weekends are typically very busy periods even without events and is keen to see
some of that business spread throughout the year.

“I look forward to helping Hawke’s Bay Tourism develop the offering, and to welcoming many more
cycling visitors to our region,” he says.

Hamish Saxton says the Hawke’s Bay multi-day cycle tour experience will be launched in May 2022
at TRENZ, New Zealand’s inbound tourism showcase that attracts hundreds of international travel
buyers and media delegates together to meet with New Zealand's leading tourism operators.

Op-ed by Hamish Saxton, Chief Executive at Hawke’s Bay Tourism

6 October 2021

The emergence of the Delta variant of Covid-19 in New Zealand has landed a brutal blow on the events sector.

Nationwide, event organisers are faced with the difficult decision to either postpone or cancel their events outright, before wading through the avalanche of work that follows as they communicate with ticket holders, operators and contractors and plan and unplan, and plan again, the many elements that must come together for a successful event.

It is no different here in Hawke’s Bay. The cost of this outbreak on Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy, and specifically those who rely on the events industry, is profound.

This year has seen the cancellation of the Art Deco Festival, Horse of the Year and the Hawke’s Bay A&P Show, the postponement of Summer F.A.W.C!’s 10th anniversary festival and Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction and the move to a condensed programme for both Central Hawke’s Bay Spring Fling and the Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival, among others.

Yet while Covid-19 has prevented people from travelling internationally, the interest and demand for events in Hawke’s Bay has skyrocketed. We have seen record levels of interest, bookings, and sales for both events themselves as well as for accommodation, hospitality, and visitor experiences that people can enjoy while in region.

And therein lies the value of events to Hawke’s Bay. Events provide an urgency and commitment to travel. They fill up our planes, buses, hotels and motels, bars and restaurants. They give our retail stores, tourism operators and visitor economy a sharp cash injection.

This is true for all events, from conferences and business events to school sports tournaments, music festivals and our own F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic.

However, when events cancel, and bookings follow suit, it leaves operators out of pocket with no way of recovering those funds. An empty room on Monday cannot be sold for a discounted rate on Tuesday – that opportunity lost is gone forever.

That’s without even touching on the many wonderful and talented contractors we have here in Hawke’s Bay who make a living through events. The artists and DJs, sound and light technicians, managers and crew, who have battled to stay alive since the beginning of the pandemic.

Thankfully, hope is in the wings. The Vaccination Certificate announced by Government this week is a really positive sign that certainty could return to the events sector, particularly when combined with increased vaccination rates and the removal of a capped number of attendees for seated public events with social distancing.

The oft-repeated comment about the events industry – even in pre-Covid times – was “you have no idea what goes on behind the scenes”, and that’s even more pertinent now.

So as event managers in Hawke’s Bay spin wheels to rearrange and make plans for a potentially incredible line up this summer, perhaps consider buying a ticket early. It could make the world of a difference right now.

Summer F.A.W.C! postponed until January 2022

6 October 2021

Hawke’s Bay Tourism is disappointed to announce that due to the ongoing uncertainty and risks associated with the Delta variant of Covid-19, the decision has been made to postpone Summer F.A.W.C! until January 28 – February 6, 2022. 

Ticket holders who cannot attend on the rescheduled dates will receive a refund, with organisers to be in touch with ticket holders over the coming weeks to confirm new event dates or process refunds.

F.A.W.C! was due to celebrate its 10^th anniversary between November 5-14, with this year’s festival breaking records for the most tickets sold during pre-sales in the festivals 10-year run. 

The decision to postpone was made by the Board of Hawke’s Bay Tourism after consultation with the hospitality, event and food and wine industries.

While organisers were saddened to not deliver a spectacular festival this November, the safety of guests, industry and Hawke’s Bay’s local communities must come first, said Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton.

“With Auckland still at Alert Level 3 and new cases emerging in other districts, we could not put people at risk by gathering event goers from around the country together for F.A.W.C!. We were also keen to give our event organisers and ticket holders some surety and something to confidently plan for.

“Many events rely on visiting talent and postponing provides a greater opportunity for those events to safely go ahead. As an event, F.A.W.C! appeals to many visitors from out of the region, including Auckland. It is designed to not only profile our positioning as New Zealand’s food and wine country but also to support our visitor economy, and we want to ensure visitors who are travelling to attend F.A.W.C!, can do so safely.” 

The postponement dates have been selected to avoid clashing with the region’s grape harvest and as many published major summer events as possible, said Saxton.

“After consulting with our members, it was decided that F.A.W.C! could have real value during late January, when visitation traditionally quietened down ahead of school starting back.

“We also hope that by January there will be further certainty and stability for the events industry as a whole. The Government has signalled that vaccine passports could be required for future events, and this would certainly act as an added layer of security once the entire country is allowed to travel freely once again.”

F.A.W.C! organisers will be in touch with ticket holders over the coming weeks to advise of rescheduled dates and to process any requested refunds.

F.A.W.C!’s 10th anniversary one for the record books

14 September 2021

November’s Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C!) is already breaking records, with 17 events selling out today, the most ever recorded during a Summer Series pre-sales release.

By 3.30pm, F.A.W.C!ers had snapped up more than 1380 tickets across a range of events, with 17 events sold out and many others selling fast.

Those events selling out on the first day include the F.A.W.C! Grand Long Lunch, Off the Hook at Pacifica, At The Chefs Table at Wallingford and Nomad’s Dinner – Unseen Asia at Mangapapa Hotel, all which sold out within the first three minutes of tickets going on sale.

Other sold out events include one night of Mary’s Bienvenue! A Night in Paris, Simply the Best at The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Ten Year’s of TOM at Church Road, Brunch by Bikes with Nici Wicks at Coastal Wine Cycles, No Menu. No Complications: Chile meets Tukituki at Black Barn River Room and Pranzo DellÓpera in Giardino at Mission Estate.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton says record numbers of F.A.W.C!ers went online to purchase tickets for F.A.W.C!.

“The response to this year’s festival has been outstanding. By 8.55am, we had more than 500 hungry F.A.W.C!ers ready and waiting to snap up the first offering of tickets, and by 3pm, we were on track to record our best ever pre-sale.

“Our F.A.W.C! database now numbers more than 15,000 subscribers, making interest in Hawke’s Bay events at its highest. It also means that competition for landing tickets to highly sought-after events is also at its highest. What’s more around 75,000 programmes will be distributed to key visitor markets over the next few days.

“It has been wonderful to see F.A.W.C!ers come out in support of Hawke’s Bay’s events and hospitality sector at a time when they sorely need it. We are delighted to see both our Central Hawke’s Bay events sell out within the first hour of sales, our event in Wairoa selling fast, and tickets to our exciting Napier and Hastings events flying out the door.

The value of F.A.W.C! to the visitor economy is multifaceted, says Saxton.

“Not only does F.A.W.C! provide an injection of excitement and patronage to the Hawke’s Bay visitor economy, it reflects the contemporary positioning of Hawke’s Bay as New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country and encourages repeat visitation to the region by showcasing the huge breadth of what’s on offer. We are very fortunate to have such a wealth of talented chefs, foodies, artisan producers and winemakers here in Hawke’s Bay and F.A.W.C! makes that very clear to everyone.”

This 10th Summer Series has been incredibly well supported by visitors and locals alike, says Saxton, who is looking forward to seeing that continue when tickets go out for general sale tomorrow.

With more than 50 events in this year’s calendar, there is still plenty of opportunity for F.A.W.C!ers to experience their own slice of Food and Wine Country, says Saxton.

Programme and ticket sales can be found at www.fawc.co.nz. F.A.W.C! Summer Series runs November 5-14, 2021.

F.A.W.C! to turn 10 with star-studded line-up

31 August 2021

Hawke’s Bay’s Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C!) will achieve a huge milestone this summer, celebrating 10 years of the region’s signature culinary festival.

A decade of informative and engaging workshops, luscious lunches and delicious dinners. One of incredible wine, fantastic entertainment and some of the best chefs Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand and the world can serve up.

To honour 10 years of spectacular events, the region’s culinary tastemakers will deliver a dazzling line up of more than 50 events, including a new signature showcase luncheon that will act as a cornerstone of the Summer Series for years to come.

The F.A.W.C! Grand Long Lunch will be a feast of truly epic proportions. A long lingering lunch set in a stunning secret location, with five-courses designed by five of Hawke’s Bay and New Zealand’s leading chefs. 

The star-studded luncheon will see local chefs Casey McDonald, of Craggy Range, and Regnar Christensen, of Black Barn Bistro, joined by Wellington’s Hayden McMillan, co-owner and head chef at Floriditas, Leslie Hottiaux, co-owner and head chef at Apéro on Auckland’s Karangahape Road, and Glen File, Head Chef at Josh Emett’s feature establishment Onslow. Each of the five courses will be matched to an exquisite Hawke’s Bay wine.

The entire 10-day festival will be a stunning display of the very best of Food and Wine Country as the region’s finest chefs, winemakers, artisans and purveyors work alongside incredible visiting talent.

Pacifica Restaurant is teaming up with hospitality legend Fleur Sullivan for a seafood extravaganza, incomparable foodie Nici Wickes will lead a joyful jaunt along the Te Awanga coast by bicycle, Central Fire Station is turning up the heat at Millar Road, Black Barn welcomes Cuisine’s 2018 Chef of the Year Giulio Sturla for an intimate afternoon at the River Room as well as much, much more.

Wairoa will also play host to Fleur Sullivan as she is joined by her up-and-coming chef Lyall Minhinnick at Kaiuku Marae in Māhia for a feast of epic proportions, while two of Central Hawke’s Bay’s boutique accommodation providers – Wallingford and Punanga Lodge – host hands-on afternoon workshops.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton says plans are still underway for F.A.W.C! Summer Series this November.

“In honour of the tenth Summer F.A.W.C!, we are delighted to share our delicious programme filled to the brim with fantastic events that showcase the very best of Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Country.

“While we are all staying home right now, baking lockdown loaf and banana bread, I for one, am looking forward to the amazing experiences and meals – especially cooked by someone else– that come after lockdown.

“From Hawke’s Bay’s own immensely talented chefs, wine makers, craft brewers and foodies, to our incredible venues, money-can’t-buy events and some of New Zealand’s most in-demand chefs, we aim for this year’s festival to be a special one.”

The festival will also take stock of the previous decade and honour those personalities who have made F.A.W.C! and Food and Wine Country what it is today, says Hamish Saxton.

“We look forward to anointing our first ever F.A.W.C! Hawke’s Bay Legend on November 4, before looking ahead to the next ten years, with our F.A.W.C! Grand Long Lunch.”

The 10th F.A.W.C! Summer Series runs from November 5-14, 2021.

Discover the full F.A.W.C! Summer Series programme online at www.fawc.co.nz. Tickets go on sale on September 15, with Pre-Sale tickets available from September 14. Register for Pre-Sales at www.fawc.co.nz

Hawke’s Bay records highest annual visitor card spend

5 August 2021

Hawke’s Bay has recorded its highest ever annual tourism electronic card transaction (TECT) spend despite an absence of international tourism for most of the 2020-2021 financial year.

A 36 per cent growth in domestic visitor card spend for the 20-21 financial year has more than replaced the absence of spending from international visitors, according to the Tourism Electronic Card Transaction (TECT) Data released today by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

Just over $33 million was spent by visitors to the region via electronic card during the month of June, a 26 per cent growth on the previous June and the highest ever overall TECT figures for the month of June.

This means that with the exception of February 2021, every month within the 2020-2021 financial year achieved record card expenditure by visitors to the region. TECT spend figures for February were significantly impacted by the cancellation of the Art Deco Festival and two rises in Covid-19 alert levels.

The data also showed how various sectors within the visitor economy fared during the 20/21 financial year. Hawke’s Bay’s hospitality sector recorded an annual increase in visitor card spend of 33 percent, while the accommodation sector recorded an annual increase of 11 percent. Retail saw an increase of 24 percent to their annual visitor card spend, while ‘other tourism spending’ increased by 30 percent. However, transport and other transport related businesses recorded a decrease of 58 percent in annual visitor card spend.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said the 2020/21 financial year had been an entirely unorthodox year for Hawke’s Bay’s visitor economy.

“In the most challenging environment for tourism, the increased central government support and investment has assisted us in achieving the best visitor spend results ever. It is a pleasing result after a year of considerable upheaval for our members and the visitor economy as a whole.

“However, not all tourism-related businesses have benefited from the increase in domestic tourism and many, whose businesses targeted international consumers and cruise passengers, have been forced to hibernate or reinvent themselves.”

Saxton said the Hawke’s Bay Tourism team had worked hard to promote and reinforce the region’s reputation for great experiences and superb holidaying conditions and it was gratifying to see Hawke’s Bay secure a larger share of TECT spend than previous years. 

“We’ve been well supported by our partners and are grateful that they have joined with us investing in joint marketing initiatives and partnering us with complimentary experiences when hosting media, travel trade, and business event organisers.

“An initiative we are particular proud of was the Baycation campaign which focused on Wellington and the lower North Island immediately after lock down. This saw Hawke’s Bay increase its visitor share from these regions with growth that has been sustained throughout this financial year.”

“We also have to thank Hawke’s Bay Regional Council for their abiding funding and political support; Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment for their strategic tourism protection funding; the Board and members of the Hawke’s Bay Tourism Industry Association for their investment and support; our region’s city and district councils for their support and encouragement; national and regional tourism organisations we partner with; and we would like to thank all of the visitors who have experienced the region for the first time – and those who have returned.”

The Tourism Electronic Card Transactions (TECTs) were established by MBIE in late 2020 as an interim replacement for the MRTEs (Monthly Regional Tourism Estimates), which were disrupted by Covid-19. Monthly TECT spend figures were backdated for three years to allow for comparison.

The TECTS represent tourism spend based almost exclusively on physical electronic card transactions, and do not include any other form of spending such as cash, pre-purchases or online spend.

Central Hawke’s Bay blooms with spectacular Spring Fling line up

29 July 2021

Central Hawke’s Bay will come alive this spring with a spectacular line up for the district’s annual Spring Fling Festival.

Capturing the true essence of this enchanting part of Hawke’s Bay, Spring Fling showcases the very best food, wine, adventure, culture and history that Central Hawke’s Bay has to offer, all set against truly stunning landscapes.  

A hidden gem, Central Hawke’s Bay’s charm is irrepressible at this time of year. And whether your passion is food, wine, gardens, history, markets, or the great outdoors, Spring Fling has a unique experience waiting to be discovered by you.

Spring Fling tickets go on sale on August 3, 2021 and a full list of events can be found at www.thespringfling.nz.

From gorgeous lunches and walks at the district’s historic homesteads to coastal farmland treks, boutique markets, floral workshops and cooking masterclasses, Spring Fling is a wonderful showcase of the district in spring.

Highlights in this year’s programme include the Central Hawke’s Bay Garden Trail, which will see 14 gorgeous gardens open their gates to visitors for one weekend only.

Spend two days delighting in some of the region’s most beautiful gardens – from rambling rose gardens, bountiful edible gardens, organic vegetable gardens and lush native gardens, to gardens that feed you and heal you, and nurture your soul.

The All Things Herbs Masterclass is a delicious deep dive into the dynamic world of herbs, with herbologist Julia Sich and Malo Head Chef Bert van de Steeg, all set in the tranquil surrounds of Mangarara Eco Lodge; while A Floral Moment is set to be a beautiful exploration of the slow flower movement at the historic Aramoana Homestead.

Annual favourites, including the Omakere Coastal Hill Country Walk, Taniwha Daffodils, Gwavas Homestead and Garden Tour, Ongaonga Village Fair and Waipawa Duck Day, are again ready to delight visitors and locals alike.

Mayor Alex Walker said the event was a fantastic addition to the Central Hawke’s Bay calendar and helped to showcase some of the best venues and hospitality the district has to offer.

“We have so much to see and do in this thriving part of Hawke’s Bay – it’s exciting to share the sights, sounds and tastes of Central Hawke’s Bay with people from throughout the region and further afield.

“Spring is such a beautiful time to open the doors to some of our most stunning and iconic gardens, homesteads and culinary adventures. Many of the events are designed to cater for families, so everyone, young and old, can get involved.”

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said whichever way people chose to enjoy Spring Fling, one thing visitors could count on was the genuine warmth and hospitality of Central Hawke’s Bay locals.

“Spring in Central Hawke’s Bay is a very special time of year, and it is the perfect opportunity to showcase this part of our region. We know visitors to Central Hawke’s Bay will be enchanted by what they find at the annual Spring Fling Festival.”

Daring Deco is back!

5 July 2021

Grab your coats, hats and fur wraps and get cosy with the sophisticated and stylish, as the Winter Deco Festival takes centre stage this July in Hawke’s Bay.

Whether it's glitzy soirees, vintage cocktail evenings, cool jazz performances, delectable dining experiences at our finest Art Deco restaurants, fabulous fashion, classic films, vintage car displays or taking in Napier’s incredible Art Deco heritage, there is a lot to savour at Winter Deco Weekend.

And with a few tickets still available for feature events such as the Dazzle Ball, and plenty of free or walk-up events available, there’s still time to plan your Deco weekend away.

It is a busy month in Napier’s CBD, with the reopening of Napier’s MTG (Museum, Theatre and Gallery) to be celebrated on July 24-25, 2021.

All are welcome to the free festivities of exhibitions, performances, children’s activities, and activations throughout the museum. And in typical Food and Wine Country fashion, delicious fare will be on offer from food truck, Vagabond Jacks. 

Hastings’ East Side will be buzzing with this month as Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre welcome two fantastic comedy gigs to the Opera House.

Heath Franklin brings his smash hit show ‘Chopper – The Silencer’ to Hawke’s Bay for one night only on July 9; while Penny Ashton becomes a Dickensian-inspired, orphaned hero Olive Copperbottom in her one woman show on July 15.

Families looking to travel for the July school holidays will find plenty to do at the National Aquarium of New Zealand. Learn all about the nine stars of Matariki and enjoy special story times being held Monday to Friday at 11.30am. Children will love getting comfortable opposite Tuatara Alfie’s habitat for this wonderful session.

Need a bed for the night? Many of Hawke’s Bay’s finest accommodation providers have deals running throughout the month of July.  

Mt Vernon Villa in Central Hawke’s Bay is offering guests a free night with their Stay 3, Pay 2 offer. Valid for stays before September 30, 2021; this is a fantastic chance to experience the stunning historical villa.

Eskdale-based Kiwiesque Luxury Vineyard Accommodation has a fantastic ‘Weekday Special’ running until mid-October; while Art Deco Masonic Hotel is offering guests a 20 percent discount when they book direct and more than 21 days ahead of their stay.

What’s on this July:

• July 9 – Chopper - The Silencer – Hastings Opera House, Hastings
• July 15 – Olive Copperbottom – Hastings Opera House, Hastings
• July 16-18 – Winter Deco Festival – Various venues across Hawke’s Bay
• July 24-25 – MTG Reopening – MTG, Napier
• July 12-23 – Matariki Celebrations – National Aquarium of New Zealand, Napier

Hot Deals this July:

• Mt Vernon Villa – 3 NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 2 – Book before July 17, for stays before September 30^th
• Kiwiesque Luxury Vineyard Accommodation - WEEKDAY SPECIAL – Book and stay before October 10. Excludes weekends and public holidays
• Art Deco Masonic Hotel - BOOK AHEAD, SAVE 20% - Save 20% off when you book ahead (21 days or more) & direct. Enter promo code ADVANCE when booking on hotel website. Valid for stays until November 30, 2021.

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New Zealand Cider Festival coming to Hawke's Bay

16 June 2021

Plans for the 10^th anniversary of Hawke’s Bay’s signature culinary festival F.A.W.C! are well underway with the announcement of the Summer Series’ first event – the New Zealand Cider Festival.

Hosted in the North Island for the first time, the New Zealand Cider Festival will be held at the Tomoana Showgrounds on Saturday, November 13, 2021. Summer F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic will run from November 5 to 14, 2021.

Previously held in Nelson for the last five years, the cider festival will now alternate years between Nelson and Hawke’s Bay.

“Rotating between these two locations will bring cider to as wide an audience as possible, showcase New Zealand’s two main cider growing regions, and will help ensure the longevity and impact of the event in support of our thriving cider industry,” says Shelley Haring, Managing Director of Nelson Venues & Events, the company that delivers the New Zealand Cider Festival on behalf of the New Zealand Fruit Wine & Cider Makers Association.

“We are delighted to see the NZ Fruit Wine & Cider Association’s plans coming to fruition and we are excited to deliver the event for them in the Hawke’s Bay region in 2021.”

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton says the inclusion of the New Zealand Cider Festival within the F.A.W.C! Summer Series will highlight the breadth and quality of the craft beverages offering in Hawke’s Bay.

“Hawke’s Bay is well known as a fantastic wine growing region, but F.A.W.C! helps to also showcase the talented craft brewers who call Hawke’s Bay home,” says Saxton.

“Our region is New Zealand’s largest producer of apples, so naturally we have some very clever people making incredible ciders here, and it is wonderful to have the festival draw attention to what they, and other New Zealand cider producers, are doing.

“The New Zealand Cider Festival is a fantastic first event announcement for the 10^th anniversary of Summer F.A.W.C! and we look forward to sharing more event details in the coming months.”

The cider festival is family friendly and offers a range of entertainment, including excellent music, educational talks, tastings, and a popular children’s entertainment area.

Tickets for the New Zealand Cider Festival are on sale and can be purchased through https://www.nzciderfestival.com/. 

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Winter F.A.W.C!'s Foodie Feeding Frenzy

20 April 2021

F.A.W.C! 2021 Winter Series is already breaking records with 17 events sold out by 3pm on the day of the highly anticipated ticket presale.

F.A.W.C!ers have snapped up more than half of the available festival tickets across a range of events, making this year’s pre-sale the most successful ever for a winter series.

Those events selling out on the first day include Church Road’s Medieval Banquet, Craggy Range’s Prestige Underground, The Old Church’s Munich meets Meeanee, Cape South’s Winter Wellness Day Retreat, GINdian at Deliciosa’s, Elephant Hill’s Chef in Homes and Managapapa Lodge’s Flavours of the World among others.

Thankfully, there are many exciting events with tickets still available including Black Barn’s Cook a Chook, Moana Park’s This Little Piggy, A Fine Diner at Carr’s Kitchen, Mission Estate’s Are you Game?, Flights to Savour with Hawke’s Bay Wine Growers and Opera Kitchen, and The Bright Cider Life with St George’s and Paynter’s Cider.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said the response showed there was a real appetite for Food and Wine Country throughout the year.

“F.A.W.C!ers went online in droves to book tickets for Winter F.A.W.C! and we were delighted to see so many events sell out during presales. It also showed the very real value of being signed up to the F.A.W.C! database and getting in early,” says Hamish Saxton.

“After Covid-19 forced the cancellation of the 2020 Winter Series, it will be wonderful to once again see the month of June filled with events, eating, drinking and most of all foodies from across the country savouring the very best of Hawke’s Bay, Food and Wine Country.”

Winter F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic will run for its eighth year with more than 40 events taking place throughout the month of June with the very best of Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Country on display thanks to the line-up of mouth-watering morsels.

Once again running across the four weekends in June (June 4-6, June 11-13, June 18-20 and June 25-27), Winter F.A.W.C! is the perfect antidote to the cooler months.

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The Search for Hawke's Bay's Food and Wine Legends Begins

19 April 2021

Hawke’s Bay Tourism has teamed up with Cuisine Magazine to honour the legends of Hawke’s Bay’s food and beverage industries.

While Hawke’s Bay is widely considered an unrivalled playground for foodies, the partnership hopes to bring attention to those visionaries who shaped New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country into the delicious destination it is today.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism is calling for nominations from the public, with Hawke’s Bay Legends announced at the 10th ever F.A.W.C! Summer Series this November. Nominations can be made at www.fawc.co.nz/hawkesbaylegends and close June 27, 2021.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said the anniversary of the 10^th Summer F.A.W.C! was the perfect time to acknowledge the people and the industries who started it all.

“Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country, but this hasn’t happened by chance. There are some incredibly talented and dedicated people who have contributed to this reputation, and now is the time to honour them,” he said.

“As we look back over 10 years of Summer F.A.W.C!, we want to also look forward and establish something that acknowledges those people who have consistently delivered the quality, innovation and inspiration that has solidified Hawke’s Bay’s reputation as a foodie playground.”

Cuisine Magazine, which has shone a light on New Zealand’s culinary scene for more than 30 years, were delighted to be assisting Hawke’s Bay Tourism in the hunt, said magazine Editor Kelli Brett.

"The continuously evolving Hawke's Bay food and drink story is an exciting one and of course, it hasn't happened overnight. It is a story that speaks to the creativity, risk-taking and dedication of many talented people within the local community and this inspired initiative gives us an opportunity to applaud their magnificent contributions. It is through their efforts that Hawke's Bay has become a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers of all shapes and sizes. How wonderful to be able to see them recognised and celebrated?”

From extraordinarily talented chefs and formidable wine makers to the burgeoning artisan producers and craft brewers, Cuisine and Hawke’s Bay Tourism believe it is the talented people behind the food and drink that are leading the way.

So, if you know a winemaker who has revolutionised the industry, a food producer whose humble harvest speaks volumes, or perhaps a chef who has broken new ground, then head online to www.fawc.co.nz/hawkesbaylegends and share!

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Winter F.A.W.C! Ready to be Devoured

14 April 2021

Winter F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic is back for an eighth year and foodies can now devour its deliciously hot programme of more than 40 events throughout the month of June.

The very best of Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Country is on display in this year’s delectable line up of mouth-watering morsels. From extraordinarily talented chefs, award-winning winemakers and passionate producers come 46 events overflowing with inspiration, creativity and flair.

Once again running across the four weekends in June (June 4-6, June 11-13, June 18-20 and June 25-27), Winter F.A.W.C! is the perfect antidote to the cooler months.

Events range from intimate chef’s table dinners in luxurious surroundings and exclusive wine degustation evenings, to truffle hunting, wellness day retreats and lively celebrations of all things fried. Event ticket prices range from $50 to $295, with several walk-up events planned throughout the month as well.

Among many other highlights, Havelock North’s Giant Brewery and Public House, are holding Psalms on Sunday, a Sunday brunch that will satisfy your soul; Hygge at Clifton Bay, are working with Napier’s National Distillery to deliver Fireside Ginstronomy, a tale of food and gin; the talented team at Black Barn and Asian Diner are serving up Freddy’s Cook-a-Chook, which combines fiery Korean fried chicken with smooth beats from Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Chopper Reeds; while the team at Mission Estate is inviting foodies to step up and discover a range of sumptuously cooked game meat in their event Are you Game?

What’s more, both Wairoa and Central Hawke’s Bay will be hosting events this season ensuring foodies can get a true taste of the whole region. In Wairoa, F.A.W.C!ers are in for a treat at F.A.W.C! Taste of Wairoa at the iconic Gaiety Theatre; while Chris Stockdale at Wallingford invites people into his kitchen in a chef’s table event at the charming historic homestead.

Also new to the programme is A Taste of F.A.W.C!, where the region’s eateries will offer a special Winter F.A.W.C! deal throughout the month of June. At the centrepiece of these dishes are local products and produce, with each dish made from at least 90 per cent Hawke’s Bay-sourced ingredients. Participating outlets will offer their Taste of F.A.W.C! dish at a special rate, and often with a beverage match.

The culinary festival starts with bang, thanks to Thank F.A.W.C! it’s Friday on the first Friday of the month (June 4^th). This special opening night event will see participating bars and restaurants throughout the region create signature drinks made from local Hawke’s Bay ingredients.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said the organisation was thrilled to be organising the eighth Winter F.A.W.C!

“This year’s mix of events are incredibly varied, showcasing just how vast Hawke’s Bay is as a culinary destination. We have events that celebrate local food, wine, beer, cider and gin, and everything in between. It is set to be a magnificent month of featuring, drinking and most of all savouring the very best of Hawke’s Bay, Food and Wine Country.”

The programme has launched online at www.fawc.co.nz. F.A.W.C! database members will have special pre-sale access to buy tickets on Tuesday, April 20^th with tickets for the general public available from Wednesday April 21^st at 9am via the F.A.W.C! website www.fawc.co.nz.

F.A.W.C! is organised by Hawke’s Bay Tourism and sponsored by Hawke’s Bay BMW, Hastings District Council and Napier City Council.

Food and Wine Country Awaits

23 February 2021

Foodie: a person who has an ardent or refined interest in food and who eats food not only out of hunger but for pleasure. A person who loves Hawke’s Bay.

Foodies assemble. Your pilgrimage to Food & Wine Country is now easier than ever thanks to the release of a comprehensive online guide to Hawke’s Bay’s unmissable eats . . . and drinks, and unique cellar door experiences, and insta-worthy coffee spots, and iconic artisanal goods and much, much more.

And whatever your weakness, www.foodandwinecountry.com has something to whet your appetite.

The wide-ranging guide details both iconic favourites and hidden gems. From urban bars to raise a glass at and degustation dining experiences, to restaurants and cafes with epic views, must-try craft breweries, casual favourites and stops for the health conscious, the initiative showcases the diversity of Hawke’s Bay’s food and wine scene. 

The oldest wine region in New Zealand, Hawke’s Bay is also a produce-growing and farming powerhouse. The largest grower of apples, squash and olives, it is also responsible for 80% of the country’s nectarines, peaches and plums. Had a cherry prior to Christmas? That’s most likely from Hawke’s Bay too.

All this without even touching on the Hawke’s Bay’s reputation as a leading grower of garlic, mushrooms, peas, corn, beans, onions and pears, or it’s beef, lamb and venison farming prowess.

It is no wonder all this growing and producing has turned the region into a foodie paradise. When the produce is this close and this fresh, garden-to-plate and farm-to-plate cuisine is not so much an ideal, but a way of life. 

Visitors to Hawke’s Bay can pluck figs straight from the tree, hunt for truffles with a canine guide and sample wine directly from the barrel. They can visit urban restaurants that offer international-level dining, discover the country’s oldest icecreamery Rush Munros (opened in 1926) or join in the region’s very own Sunday worship, the Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market.

And while vast from tip to toe, Hawke’s Bay never detours far from a tasty bite. It takes a little more than three hours to traverse this sprawling culinary region and yet 15 minutes is all you need to travel from a two-hatted restaurant in the heart of the city, past orchards brimming with fruit, to your pick of award-winning wineries, many of which are widely recognised as among the best in the world.

Even sports events in Food and Wine Country are delicious. From the region’s signature bike race, The Big Easy, where riders are literally encouraged to indulge in food and drinks along the way, to the Hawke’s Bay Marathon, with its food and wine festival at the finish line, Hawke’s Bay is always thinking about what to serve up next (Something you are likely to find at F.A.W.C!, the region’s signature culinary festival).

And as long summer days stretch well into Autumn and the sun continues to shine in Hawke’s Bay, there’s never been a better time to escape to a foodie paradise, or perhaps even, another country – Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country.

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Associated Art Deco events still on in Hawke's Bay

18 February 2021

Art Deco inspired events will still happen in Hawke’s Bay this weekend despite the cancellation of the Art Deco Festival due to Covid-19 restrictions.

And with spectacular weather forecast, it is welcome news to the many visitors who still plan to visit the region.

More than 20 events are confirmed for this weekend, with iconic venues such as Mission Estate, The County Hotel, The Art Deco Masonic Hotel and The Urban Winery at the National Tobacco Building all bringing the glitz and glamour of the Art Deco era to life.

A handful of free events will still go ahead as well, including the Deco Belles bike ride along Marine Parade on Saturday morning, the Army Charter Parade from Clive Square to the Soundshell at midday and The Ritz Street Party at Market St that evening.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive Hamish Saxton said although the Festival itself was cancelled, it was great to see associated and individual events still able to go ahead.

“Hawke’s Bay will celebrate Art Deco this weekend, so dust off the sparkly frocks and striped blazers and let’s get into the spirit of Art Deco!

“We already have guests here ready to have a wonderful time in Hawke's Bay, and with more and more independent events being confirmed, we are confident that everyone, from those who have been before to those who are discovering our Art Deco heritage for the very time, will have a wonderful time.

“The work of the Trust over many years in protecting and promoting our heritage means that celebrating Art Deco can occur all year round, and the reduction in Covid-19 Alert Levels means we can still put on a show for visitors to the region.”

Confirmed independent Art Deco events include:

• Not so Common Deco: Thurs 18 February
• Prohibition Casino: Thurs 18 February
• MacRag Time at the Common Room: Thurs 18 February (Free)
• Art Deco Jazz at the Cabana: Thurs 18 February
• Down Argentine Way: Thurs 18, Fri 19, Sat 20 February (please phone 027 5829 925 to book)
• At the Pictures: Top Hat: Thurs 18, Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 February
• At the Pictures: Ninotchka: Thurs 18, Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 February
• CAN-Do Deco: Thurs 18 February – Thurs 11 March (Free)
• Plus Four Golf Tournament:Fri 19 February
• Aunty’s Maara Kai: Fri 19 February
• Tom Sainsbury & Dj Corysco at the Common Room: Fri 19 February (Free)
• Nicole & High Society Swingers at the Cabana: Fri 19 February
• Port O Call High Tea: Thurs 18, Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 February
• Brunch with Style at the County Hotel: Fri 19 & Sat 20 February
• Ahuriri Dinner: Fri 19 & Sat 20 February
• Par2 Mini Golf: Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 February
• Deco Belles: Sat 20 February (Free)
• Charter Parade: Sat 20 February 12.30pm (Parade from Emerson St to the Sound Shell) (Free)
• Madcap Block Party at the Common Room: Sat 20 February (Free)
• Hastings Art Deco & Earthquake Walk: Sat 20 February (Meet at Hastings iSite) 
• ‘The Ritz’ Street Party @ Market Street: Sat 20 February (Free)
• Nicole & The High Society Swingers: Sat 20 February
• The Mission Art Deco Party: Sat 20 February (SOLD OUT)
• Napier Municipal Theatre Viewing: Sat 20 February 9am – 3pm & Sun 21 February 9am – 1.30pm (Free)
• Lazy Sunday at the Common Room: Sun 21 February (Free)
• Tea with the Stars: Sun 21 February

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