Our friends across the Tasman sure know how to throw a party, and Kiwi Fest is no different. As Australia’s only festival dedicated to Aotearoa/New Zealand’s diverse culture, music, art and food, it’s the perfect opportunity for Melbourne’s Kiwi community to come together on the banks of the Maribyrnong River and celebrate all that’s great about their roots.
Set to happen on Saturday, October 29 at the Footscray Community Arts Centre, feast on traditional Māori and Kiwi food from Hangi Boys, Riley's Kai and Maui's Snack Bar, and get your favourite New Zealand snacks and lollies from the pop-up 112 York store.
Make your way through the mākete village to get your hands on a range of Kiwiana, Māori, Pacific Island and contemporary wares, and catch performances from the local Māori and Pasifika community, in collaboration with Maori community organisation Ngā Mātai Pūrua.
There will be plenty of tunes to enjoy on the day, with the festival headlined by Roots Reggae legends House Of Shem and New Zealand's Queen of Hip-hop and RnB Ladi6, who’s toured with the likes of Erykah Badu, Jhene Aiko, Digable Planets and Fat Freddys Drop.
Children under 10 get in for free, with cheap tickets at just $22 for those aged 11-17. General admission for adults starts at $58.
Purchase tickets from the Kiwi Fest website.