For over a decade, F.A.W.C! – the Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic, has been a highlight on the New Zealand foodie event calendar drawing wine enthusiasts and foodies alike to the heart of New Zealand’s food and wine country. Held in March, this vibrant festival coincides with the region’s wine harvest, offering a unique opportunity to experience the magic firsthand.
A Celebration of Community and Flavour
More than just a wine festival, F.A.W.C! is a celebration of community, bringing together locals and visitors to savour the region’s renowned wines, indulge in delectable cuisine, and experience the passion that drives this thriving industry. The event showcases the region’s diverse flavours, from a delicious buttery chardonnay to the crispness of a Hawke’s Bay apple and the artistry of regional cuisine.
Get Your Hands Dirty (and Your Taste Buds Tingling)
F.A.W.C! offers a unique opportunity to experience the region’s renowned viticulture firsthand with engaging activities that celebrate the harvest. Along with winery meals and wine matchings you can also find events that offer the following hands-on and bespoke wine experiences:
- Try your hand at grape crushing: Experience the physicality of winemaking and feel the connection to the land.
- Blend your own wine: Unleash your inner winemaker and create a unique blend to savour.
- Sample award-winning wines: Discover new favourites from local wineries and chat with the passionate winemakers themselves.
- Dine with the stars: Enjoy culinary demonstrations from renowned chefs showcasing the best of Hawke’s Bay produce.
- Explore the region: Discover hidden gems, from charming vineyards to picturesque countryside, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hawke’s Bay.
A Must-Do for Every Foodie
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply enjoy delicious food and good company, F.A.W.C! is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this renowned Great Wine Capital, inviting all to savour the harvest and celebrate the unique flavours of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country. F.A.W.C! 2025 will run from 14 -23 March.