JOIN THE CELEBRATION OF FOOD IN NEW ZEALAND

When I think of New Zealand, I always imagine crisp, clean air, rolling emerald hills and the freshest produce.  It is this great food that the Wild Foods Festival of New Zealand showcases. Started by local Claire Bryant, this celebration of food in New Zealand focuses on the tastes of its West Coast and the food that is traditionally grown and produced there.

New Taste Sensations

While the event focuses on what is grown within the region, new foods are added every year. Some of the more interesting and recent additions include wasp larvae ice-cream, cucumber fish and wok fried clams. It is this kind of quirky atmosphere that has contributed to this event twice being awarded Most Unique Event in New Zealand at the New Zealand Tourism Awards.

Plenty of local talent is on display over the course of the event, with roving entertainers, bands, mime artists, stand-up comedy and even dancing. So morning to night, there is plenty to keep everyone in the family occupied. Covering genres from country to SKA, there is sure to be something to please everyone.

Wild, Wild West

The Wild Food Festival also focuses on the local region of Hokitika. An artwork competition is held each year, where posters are created to raise the profile of the region. With its stunning glaciers, national parks and wildlife there is plenty to highlight about the untamed wild west of New Zealand.

If you enjoy getting out into the wilderness, then visit the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge. With postcard perfect views, it is hard to believe that this beautiful place is real. The granite gorge looks over brilliant turquoise water and backs onto the Rimu forest. Those with an adventurous streak can kayak down the river. Be sure to carry a helmet though! Cross over the swing bridge for that picture perfect spot in this beautiful New Zealand forest. If you have the energy there are long walks that traverse around the river and make for a great adventure.

For a more leisurely pace, head to Lake Mahinapua, which is a great place to spend a quiet afternoon. Once a coastal lagoon, ecological changes have meant it is now an inland lake. Various wild and rare birds flit amongst the swampy region, making it a great place for bird watching. There are several easy walks that can be done around the lake and in the reserve, and for the more energetic you can even hire a bike or a boat and enjoy the view or even take a dip in the sparkling waters of the lake to cool off.

This New Zealand Festival has been so popular that they have had to cap attendance, so be sure to get in quickly to make sure you don’t miss out. The 24^th New Zealand Wild Foods Festival will be held on March 9 at Hokitika.

Want to enjoy the fresh New Zealand air? MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights to Christchurch, from where you can take a short flight or bus ride to Hokitika.