The Kāpiti Food Fair has 126 vendor sites booked so far and is growing weekly.
“We are super delighted with this result and are encouraging vendors to book sooner rather than later so we can carefully manage the site map and broader marketing campaign,” says Helene Judge, co-owner of the Fair.
Vendors who participate in the Fair have a clear objective to raise their profile and attract new customers.
The entertainment programme will include talented locals and is about to be finalised. With the choice of vendors and the entertainment programme, the Fair is shaping up nicely for another big year. Kāpiti Rotary are on-board again to help run things smoothly on the day including vendor set-up, visitor entry, parking and the ATM cash-out facility.
“We are also about to release tickets for the Masterclass on Friday 1 December with Celebrity Chef Jax Hamilton,” says Jeanine van Kradenburg, the other owner of the Fair. “By attending the Masterclass, you will be inspired as Jax demonstrates dishes that are simple, delicious, full of flavour and that will blend a bit of cockney with a pinch of Caribbean, and all served up on a kiwi plate.”
The Fair is about to submit its special licence application to set-up a Bar that will sell craft beer, boutique wine or a cocktail. “The Bar was a new initiative last year so we are looking forward to running it again with our sponsor Tuatara Brewing. The Bar will welcome everyone including kids as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian,” says Helene.
Marketing for the Fair is kicking off in August and includes an extensive online campaign and other channels like cinema advertising, bus back ads, plenty of billboard sites, flags, radio and print media. “As we have hit the top NZ 20 food festival list (www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/food-wine/food-news/83854417/new-zealands-best-20-food-festivals) we want to maintain that status and credibility with vendors and visitors each year so targeting our marketing is important,” says Jeanine.
The cost to be a vendor for a Single site is $99 and for a Double site $169. Each site fee includes one standard rubbish bag for removal by the Fair at the conclusion. To book a site, go to