Katikati Avocado Food & Wine festival 2025

The Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival once again celebrated avocados with a day of great music, delicious avocado-inspired food and drinks, and vibrant summer energy. Held in the heart of New Zealand’s Avocado Capital on Saturday, 11 January 2025 Katikati, the festival brought together avocado lovers from near and far.

A feast for avocado enthusiasts

This year’s festival showcased an impressive selection of avocado-inspired culinary creations, featuring everything from classic favourites to inventive new dishes. Local food vendors and chefs put their creativity on full display, serving up guacamole, and even avocado-infused cocktails. Refreshing smoothies, avocado-topped toast, and avocado-based ice cream added to the diverse selection, proving just how versatile and tasty this beloved fruit can be.

For those looking to elevate their home cooking skills, live cooking demonstrations provided valuable insights into new and exciting ways to prepare and enjoy avocados. Professional chef Brad King shared tips, techniques, and recipes, helping visitors discover fresh ways to incorporate avocados into their daily meals. Whether it was learning how to create a perfect avocado smash or experimenting with avocado-infused desserts, there was no shortage of inspiration.

A longstanding tradition in Katikati

Since its inception in 2004, the Katikati Avocado Food and Wine Festival has grown into one of the most anticipated summer events in the region. Year after year, it attracts avocado enthusiasts, foodies, and families from across the Bay of Plenty and beyond. The festival not only celebrates Katikati’s thriving avocado industry but also highlights the community’s dedication to supporting local artisan producers and food vendors.

One of the festival’s key attractions is its family-friendly atmosphere. From interactive avocado-themed games to face painting and entertainment, the festival ensured that young visitors had plenty to keep them engaged. Families could relax under the summer sun, enjoying a picnic-style setting while sampling fresh avocado dishes, listening to live music, and browsing the many market stalls filled with locally made products.

Music, wine, and a perfect summer setting

The live entertainment lineup added to the festival’s lively atmosphere, with acts providing the perfect soundtrack to a day of indulgence and relaxation. Festival-goers enjoyed a mix of upbeat tunes and laid-back summer vibes, making it easy to unwind with a glass of wine or an avocado-infused cocktail in hand.

Speaking of beverages, the festival also featured a selection of premium New Zealand wines and craft beers, offering the perfect pairing for the avocado-inspired menu. Local wineries and breweries set up tasting stations, giving visitors the chance to explore new flavours while supporting regional producers. There was even an avocado mojito on offer.

A successful event with more to come

The festival continues to be a highlight on the summer calendar, drawing repeat visitors and newcomers. Events Manager

Kylie Watkins was thrilled with this year’s turnout and the positive feedback from attendees.

“The festival was the perfect way to celebrate avocados, whether you were tasting, learning, or simply soaking up the summer vibes,” said Watkins. “Everyone left with a smile—and probably a few new favourite avocado recipes!”

With another successful year wrapped up, organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s event, promising even more exciting food, entertainment, and experiences.

Want to be part of the action? Mark your calendar for Saturday, 10 January 2026, and don’t miss out on another unforgettable day of avocado-inspired fun in Katikati!