The award-winning Local Wild Food Festival returns to Mahy Reserve, Ōhope on Saturday.

Now in its 10th running since launching in 2013, the festival has become a firm fixture on the Whakatāne district calendar, drawing around 2600 people each year to celebrate sustainable kai, cultural heritage and connection to the land and sea.

Whakatāne Mayor Nándor Tánczos said the festival reflected what made the district special.

“This festival brings together kai Māori traditions, a love of hunting, fishing and food growing across our communities, sustainable practices, and community connection in a way that’s uniquely ours,” he said.

The event began as part of an international movement launched in 2008 by Bill Manson in Eastbourne, celebrating nature’s bounty and resourceful communities.

In 2013, Whakatāne District Council adopted the concept in partnership with mana whenua Ngāti Hokopū, embedding strong Māori values at its core.

Ngāti Hokopū representative William Stewart said that cultural foundation was intentional.

“The festival celebrates kai Māori practices that have sustained our people for generations – creating learning opportunities that connect our whole community,” he said.

Originally held at Te Mānuka Tūtahi, Mataatua Marae, the festival moved to Ōhope Beach to accommodate growing crowds. In 2025 it won the NZEA Community or Not-for-Profit Event award.

This year’s line-up again highlights sustainable food practices and outdoor skills.

Shay Williamson, winner of Alone Australia, will share his expertise in bush living.

Chef Kaii Silberry is travelling from the Chatham Islands to create signature crayfish dumplings, while Toby Barkla of Plains Butchery returns with his popular butchery demonstrations.

Paul Patterson of Fisherman’s Wharf will also be showcasing his hunting and fishing skills in the smoky zone.

Free tastings will be served throughout the day, alongside food trucks offering bespoke wild fare including crayfish, pāua, mussels, wild pork belly bites and venison sausages. Craft beer, wine, gin and award-winning kombucha will also be available, with live music adding to the festival atmosphere.

Event organisers said the festival had become part of the district’s identity.

The Local Wild Food Festival runs from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday, February 21, at Mahy Reserve, Ōhope. Tickets are available online.