Far North community supports Savour Northland food and wine festival
The Far North community boards have recently shown their support for the Savour Northland food and wine festival, a beloved event that celebrates the region’s best culinary offerings. This year, the festival has received a significant boost with almost $20,000 in funding from two community boards.
The Te Hiku Community Board allocated $4000 to support the 2026 edition of the festival, while the Bay of Islands–Whangaroa Community Board generously granted $15,379 for each of the next two festivals, scheduled for this year and 2027. This funding reflects the boards’ recognition of the festival’s importance in boosting the regional economy, drawing in visitors, and fostering community connections.
The Savour Northland festival is more than just a showcase of food and wine; it also shines a spotlight on local producers, hospitality businesses, and the rich culture of the region. It’s a platform for these entities to come together, celebrate their offerings, and showcase what makes Northland’s food and beverage industry unique and vibrant.
In November, the Bay of Islands was abuzz with excitement as the month-long Savour Northland celebration culminated in the 2025 Awards Night. Last year’s festival, which ran from October 1 to 31, saw a total of 54 events take place, with over 2200 challenge dishes sold across 24 participating venues. The community boards’ recent funding decisions signal a continued commitment to supporting initiatives that reflect the region’s identity and yield positive outcomes for residents.
Aside from supporting Savour Northland, the Far North community boards have also extended their funding to other community events and groups promoting culture, sport, and youth initiatives. The Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community Board, for example, granted $3560 to this year’s Bay of Islands Country Rock Festival, demonstrating their dedication to diverse cultural events in the region. Similarly, the Kaikohe-Hokianga board approved $3000 to support a youth sports event, emphasizing the importance of investing in the well-being and development of young community members.
The Te Hiku Community Board has also contributed to important community causes, such as awarding $5000 to the Ahipara Coastal Patrol for its kaitiaki summer program, which focuses on promoting safe driving, cultural respect, and environmental care in the area. Additionally, the board allocated $13,413 to the Muriwhenua Education and Sports Hub for car park and mezzanine upgrades, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting initiatives that benefit the community at large.
Overall, the Far North community boards’ support for events like Savour Northland is a testament to their dedication to fostering community connections, celebrating local culture, and driving positive outcomes for residents. By investing in these initiatives, the boards are not only boosting the local economy but also creating opportunities for communities to thrive and come together in a spirit of unity and celebration.