Fresh catch to snare seafood lovers

The Tauranga Boutique Seafood Festival will showcase the freshest kaimoana, Kiwi culture and entertainment when it kicks off on Saturday.

Promoter Caryn Rawlinson says it's going to be a great day out for people who want to tantalise their taste buds while enjoying fine wine and listening to great music.

She says the event is designed to highlight the "best of the best" and an array of delicious seafood straight from the ocean will be available on the day, including crayfish.

"The fact we are able to serve up crayfish and the freshest fish you have ever tasted makes us a little bit different from other festivals, and we are also hoping to put something extra special on the menu on the day as well," says Rawlinson.

"We just want people to sample all the delectable seafood available and have a really good time."

The festival will be held at Dive Cres on the Tauranga waterfront, which is home to commercial fishing fleets and other vessels.

Rawlinson says the location is fantastic because of its proximity to the city, plus its close connection to the fishing boats which are an important Tauranga industry.

"We understand the importance of fresh seafood, we are in the business of catching it and our boats supply our local markets."

Cooking demonstrations will take place throughout the day as well as a filleting competition.

Meanwhile, an impressive line-up of local music acts will be performing - Kougar Sistas will open the festival alongside Polyfunk, Sweet Echo and Shejus Greedy.

The festival has run for three years from 2008, but Rawlinson says it has been transformed and revamped with limited ticket numbers and added attractions.

The Fine Print

What: Tauranga Boutique Seafood Festival
Where: Dive Cres, Tauranga Waterfront
When: January 12, 3-8pm
More info: Extended early-bird tickets - adults $45 or $50 on the day. See www.ticketdirect.co.nz