Food and Wine Classic
F.A.W.C! – Food and Wine Classic, Hawke’s Bay
New Zealand’s Premier Food & Wine Festival
The Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C!) is Hawke’s Bay’s flagship culinary festival and one of New Zealand’s most celebrated food and wine events. Since its launch in 2012, the festival has brought together renowned chefs, award-winning winemakers, artisan producers, and food enthusiasts for a series of exclusive experiences that showcase the very best of Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Country. (winetourism.com)
A Unique Festival Format
Unlike traditional food festivals held in a single venue, F.A.W.C! takes place across wineries, vineyards, restaurants, orchards, breweries, gardens, and unique outdoor locations throughout Hawke’s Bay. Each event is specially designed and often available only during the festival, creating memorable one-off experiences for visitors. (fawc.co.nz)
Extraordinary Culinary Experiences
The festival programme is known for its diversity and creativity. Guests may enjoy:
Long-table vineyard lunches beneath the vines.
Multi-course degustation dinners paired with premium wines.
Chef collaborations featuring local and international culinary talent.
Wine masterclasses and vertical tastings.
Winemaker-hosted lunches and dinners.
Garden-to-table dining experiences.
Seafood feasts, barbecue events, and gourmet picnics.
Interactive cooking workshops and food demonstrations. (fawc.co.nz)
Celebrating Hawke’s Bay Produce
A major focus of F.A.W.C! is showcasing the region’s exceptional produce. Hawke’s Bay is famous for its vineyards, orchards, olive groves, artisan food producers, and sustainable farming. Festival menus often feature locally sourced ingredients paired with wines from some of New Zealand’s most respected wineries, allowing visitors to experience the region’s unique flavours in authentic settings. (Festival for the Future)
Wine at the Heart of the Festival
As one of New Zealand’s leading wine regions, Hawke’s Bay provides the perfect backdrop for F.A.W.C!. Many events are hosted at prestigious wineries, where guests can meet winemakers, explore vineyards, learn about viticulture, and enjoy carefully curated food-and-wine pairings. The festival highlights the region’s celebrated varietals, including Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Bordeaux-style blends. (winetourism.com)
Signature and Memorable Events
Over the years, F.A.W.C! has featured numerous standout experiences, including:
Grand Long Lunches in spectacular outdoor settings.
Vineyard dining under the stars.
International cuisine showcases.
Champagne and oyster events.
Wine blending workshops.
Māori-inspired feasting experiences.
Gourmet cycling and wine trail adventures.
Exclusive chef-hosted tasting menus. (fawc.co.nz)
Atmosphere and Setting
What makes F.A.W.C! truly special is its combination of world-class food and wine with Hawke’s Bay’s stunning landscapes. Guests dine among vineyards, olive groves, rivers, orchards, and historic estates while enjoying the region’s famous sunshine and hospitality. The festival celebrates not only food and wine but also the culture, people, and natural beauty of Hawke’s Bay. (fawc.co.nz)
Current Status
F.A.W.C! has temporarily paused its regular programme during 2025–2026. However, Hawke’s Bay continues to promote its vibrant food and wine scene, and visitors can still enjoy outstanding wineries, restaurants, cellar doors, and culinary experiences throughout the region. Festival organizers encourage visitors to stay connected for future announcements and opportunities. (fawc.co.nz)
Why Experience F.A.W.C!?
F.A.W.C! is far more than a food festival—it is a celebration of Hawke’s Bay’s identity as New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country. Combining exceptional cuisine, premium wines, stunning venues, and unforgettable hospitality, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the Southern Hemisphere’s finest culinary destinations. (Festival for the Future)
Official Website: F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic