Porirua City’s ChoctoberFest is back and this year there’s less time to wait, with 32 local businesses set to serve up delicious treats - all featuring Whittaker’s chocolate - from 20 September.

The festival, now in its fourth year, is all about supporting local business and puts Porirua’s hospitality sector on the map. This year the event is kicking off earlier to align with school holidays, so families from across the region (and further afield) can get out and sample treats in Porirua. The Whittaker’s Bake Off takes place from 20 September to 5 October, while the Top of the Chocs (drinks) runs from 20 September to 19 October.

Whittaker’s CEO James Ardern says ChoctoberFest is a great opportunity to celebrate the Porirua community as the home of Whittaker’s.

"We’re delighted to be a part of it again and seeing the wonderful creations Porirua businesses come up with," he says.

"The Porirua community is an essential ingredient in Whittaker’s story, so we hope you will join us to celebrate that".

With hot and cold drinks, imaginative baked creations, vegan options, gluten free choices and even cocktails, there should be something for everyone.

Once you’ve tasted, you can vote for your favourites to help decide who comes out on top.

There’s lots of ways to win this ChoctoberFest. You can be in to win exclusive Whittaker’s chocolate experiences when you purchase a ChoctoberFest bake or drink and rate them at poriruacity.govt.nz/choctoberfest.

Also, be in to win 100 Whittaker’s Peanut Slabs when you post a review into the Facebook group ChoctoberFest Fan Club, and win ChoctoberFest café vouchers by following Discover Porirua on Facebook or Instagram.

To find out what chocolate delights are on offer and where, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/choctoberfest. This is also where you’ll cast your votes and rate what you’ve tasted.

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