The Takapuna Food, Wine & Music Festival returned to Smales Farm on Saturday February 15th 2020 with its new title: Sunsetter Food, Wine & Music Festival. And the name sums it up perfectly – it did just what it says on the tin – as the sun set, people of all ages mingled listening to music over local cuisine and a drink in hand.
I had attended the New Year’s Eve event also produced by Highlife Entertainment, so I was excited to try out the more relaxed afternoon-to-early-evening festival in my own neighbourhood of Auckland’s North Shore. The event brought together some fantastic acts, as well as New Zealand wineries and craft breweries, quality food trucks and restaurants on site at Smales Farm on the motorway exit in Takapuna.
Speaking of Smales Farm, I thought it to be an excellent venue. As mentioned, it was right on the Northern motorway junction so it was super convenient to access it via bus or car, or on foot if coming from the North Shore. There was plenty of free parking in surrounding streets and public transport too. On a practical note there was good event security with no trouble anywhere at all, a great range of food, good wheelchair access, and overall people just seemed in a really good mood and looked to be enjoying themselves. There was a range of ages there from twenties to forties and above and something for everyone to enjoy. I liked how groups of friends had brought along picnic blankets and made a day of it.
MUSIC
The musical line-up at Sunsetter included Stonebridge, General Lee, DJ Reminise, Karn Hall, Grant Marshall, Murray Sweetpants, My Baby, Bermuda Social, Automatic 80s, Prins, Lou’Ana, and Tim Phinn.
FOOD & DRINKS
Food vendors at Sunsetter included Sawmill, Hallertau, SOHO, INCA, Sherry Kitchen, Urban Escargot, Vintage Market Deli, El Humer, Hapunan, Double Dutch Fries, Vege BangBang, Ma Keto Kitchen, Sweet As Crepes, Napoli Central, Sweet As Bowl, Lalele Organic, and A Sweet Life.
A FUN FESTIVAL
I had a fun time at Sunsetter and would recommend it to anyone wanting a relaxed and enjoyable food and wine festival, and the chance to sample a variety of New Zealand cuisine and beverages as well as listen to some awesome musicians perform live. I think for around $50 it was good value, especially if one went there at the start and made a day of it and had dinner and drinks with friends. Hope to see you there next time!
Photos by Megan Robinson
15th February 2020