Hawke’s Bay’s signature culinary festival F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic returns this November, featuring national and international culinary talent.
One of New Zealand’s signature gourmet events will take place this summer, the F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic.
Skilled Hawke’s Bay producers, artisans, chefs, winemakers and craft brewers will present alongside some of Australasia’s most reputable food and beverage stars.
More than 50 events will run throughout the 10-day festival, starting with the Grand Long Lunch, a new showcase event for the F.A.W.C! calendar.
The Grand Long Lunch will take place in a stunning and secret location. Guests will be treated to five-courses designed by five of New Zealand’s leading chefs, including local Hawke’s Bay talent Casey McDonald of Craggy Range and Regnar Christensen of Black Barn Bistro; Wellington’s Hayden McMillan; co-owner and head chef at Floriditas, Leslie Hottiaux; co-owner and head chef at Apéro on Auckland’s Karangahape Road; and Glen File, head chef at Josh Emett’s feature establishment Onslow.
Each course will showcase Hawke’s Bay produce and be matched to a different Hawke’s Bay wines.
Other events during the program include intimate sit-down dinners and elegant lunches; walk up carpark parties; workshops and New Zealand’s Craft Beer Festival.
Napier speakeasy Teresa will bring world-leading bartender Martin Hudák to Hawke’s Bay for two events. Black Barn will welcome Cuisine’s 2018 Chef of the Year Giulio Sturla for an intimate afternoon at The River Room. Te Awanga Estate will face off against Sir John Kirwan in a battle of wines.
“After two years of juggling the impact of Covid-19, it is thrilling to see a menu that includes everything from secret long lunches and intimate dinners to vibrant street parties, festivals, award nights and workshops,” said Hamish Saxton, Hawke’s Bay Tourism Chief Executive.
“From Hawke’s Bay’s own immensely talented chefs, wine makers, craft brewers and foodies, to our incredible venues, unique events and some of New Zealand’s most in-demand chefs, this year’s festival is going to be a very special one indeed.”
The 11th F.A.W.C! Summer Series runs from 4-13 November, 2022.
Pre-sale tickets are now available.