Local producers set to put Kaipara on the map

KAIPARA KUISINE: Coordinator Liz Holsted aims to promote the Kaipara region for its food and wine, and as a tourist destination.

Auckland food aficionados are in for a taste experience that locals are already familiar with. 

Kaipara’s food and wine will be featured in a large stand showcasing ‘Mangawhai to Bayleys Beach – Coast to Coast Kaipara’ at this years Taste of Auckland food show, staged at Victoria Park in the central city from November 15-18.

The initiative is supported by Kaipara District Council, Mangawhai Business Association, Mangawhai Accommodation Providers Group and Information Centre, and Mangawhai Golf Course.

A group of six producers will be tempting over 24,000 visitors with locally produced food and wine over the four days.

“This is a very exciting initiative,” says coordinator Liz Holsted, “and we are expecting not only good business for ourselves as producers, but a big spin-off effect of increased tourists and visitors from our nearest market. 

Liz says organisers are grateful to Kaipara District Council and business owners for the assistance to enable attendance at the huge show at a cost that is attainable for small producers. 

“Everyone has been enthusiastically supportive. Our stand designer – Mary Kelleher from Beach, Bach & Beyond – has designed a very professional and interactive stand that will catch people’s attention with amazing graphics and photos.”

Accommodation owners in Mangawhai have backed the venture financially and with accommodation for a prize draw, as have Mangawhai Golf Club and the local business association.

Producers involved are Lochiel Estate Wines, Millars vineyard, Tara Lodge Tamarillos, Chapel Olive Oil, Purple Monkeyfinger Vodka, and the Long Flat Bacon Company. 

“It will be a very exciting and tiring few days,” said Liz, “but we are all looking forward to telling Aucklanders what Kaipara residents have known for some time – that there is a wonderful array of good quality food, wine and accommodation experiences just an hour and a half north of the city.”