Fest of Cultural Unity returning to region this spring

• Published date: 10 August 2022
• Publication title: Whanganui Midweek

Presented by Born & Raised Pasifika, with support from Mainstreet Whanganui and a team of committed volunteers, the Fest has existed in one form or another for more than a decade and has grown to be a highlight of the local events calendar

Festival Chair, Hellen Puhipuhi, says as well as being a chance to enjoy incredible food, the Fest is all about bringing the community together to share cultural experiences and celebrate diversity.

“After a long period without many local events, this is a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and embrace Whanganui’s beautiful, multicultural community. And what better way to do that than with delicious kai and awesome live entertainment?”

Mainstreet Whanganui’s Community Liaison, Geoff Follett, has helped co-ordinate the festival for many years and says it’s great to see it back in action after missing 2021 due to the dreaded ‘C word’. In particular, Geoff’s looking forward to the culinary delights on offer.

“The Fest is always jam packed with different flavours, and this year there’ll be upwards of 20 food stalls representing all corners of the globe — including Sri Lankan, Dutch...