Celebration of food and culture

Historically, Maketu is of great significance. In the past, it has been the landing place of Arawa canoe, a major population centre, a trading port and at times, a battle-zone.

However, on Saturday, March 10, this tiny seaside settlement will showcase an event making its mark on New Zealand; The Annual Maketu Rotary Kaimoana Festival.

Now in its fifth year, the festival will be held on the Maketu Sports grounds from 12noon till 6pm. Traditional and contemporary seafood dishes will include mussels, whitebait, paua, prawns, scallops, crabs, crayfish and oysters. Fine wines and beer will be available.

Local chef Peter Blakeway will be on show along with live entertainment.

Tickets $25 adult, under-18 $10, under-5 free. Visit www.maketukaimoana.co.nz or contact Julie Crossley, 07 5332387