Puanga on a Plate 2026

‘Matariki whetū heri kai’ - ‘Matariki, the bringer of food’

Puanga Matariki is a time to come together with whānau and friends to enjoy kai and community. This festive food festival celebrates Puanga Matariki with a twist! Four fabulous, local eateries have created an original dish to celebrate and reflect the festival themes and whetū of Puanga Matariki as part of our district wide Puanga Matariki Festival 2026.

DISH NAME: Puanga Miti Kau Premium Northland beef, herb-infused and delicately touched with Thai and Indian notes, served with golden kūmara fries, housemade coconut mayonnaise, along with crisp apple & watercress salad. Available at: Grand Thai & Indian Restaurant - 2 Bank Street, Whangarei

DISH NAME: Pato con Boniato (Ahi Duck & Kumara) Char-Grilled Duck Breast, Rustic Kūmara Mash, Heirloom Carrots & Broccolini, with Te Ahi Reduction Available at: Farm to Table Steakhouse & Cantina - 31 Bank Street, Whangārei

DISH NAME: Star Cluster A rich salted caramel ice-cream with homemade chocolate stars! Available at: Bocky Boo Gelato - 71 Cameron Street, Whangārei

DISH NAME: Puanga Rising This unique dish combines traditional ingredients and flavours to bring five of the Matariki stars together - Waitī : Watercress Waitā : Tarakihi fish Tupuānuku : Radish Tupuārangi : Orange Puanga : Berries

Enjoy a fragrant fish broth crafted from fish stock, ginger, dried kawakawa (māori herbs) representing the past through its nostalgic aroma and traditional ingredients. Tarakihi fish gently poached in coconut milk and kawakawa broth, paired with homemade pickled radish and fresh orange segments for a vibrant crunch. Finished with berry spheres, watercress oil, and fresh watercress. This dish represents the present - a moment to come together in gratitude and share in this beautiful kai. To conclude, a refreshing scoop of feijoa sorbet symbolises the future - a sweet road ahead!

Available at: Local Talent Taverna - 99 Cameron Street, Whangārei, 0110

For more information on restaurant opening hours and availability, please visit: www.wdc.govt.nz/Events/Whats-On/Puanga-on-a-Plate Pricing for each dish is set by the individual restaurant. Please contact participating restaurants directly for details on pricing.

Discover these delicious dishes on offer and support local for this year’s Puanga on a Plate 2026. Happy feasting!