Quality entertainment at the Willowridge Wanakafest

Quality entertainment at the Willowridge Wanakafest

LAKE WANAKA, New Zealand (October 23, 2012) – Thousands of people descended on Lake Wanaka this weekend for the 2012 Willowridge Wanakafest.

Festival goers were treated to four days of live music, fashion, sporting events, entertainment and delicious fresh food and wine from the region. The festival kicked off on Thursday night with the Passion for Fashion show, with models showcasing local designers and retail stores to a sell-out crowd of 500 people.

The Calder Stewart Roofingsmiths Street Parade was a hit with the crowds bringing a carnival atmosphere to downtown Wanaka as a procession of 20 floats made their way through the streets. Mitre 10 won the overall prize for the best float with their saloon truck dressed up with a western theme.

The Lake Wanaka Food and Wine Fest provided a real gourmet experience with an excellent selection of flavours and delicacies prepared from fresh local produce. The master classes were well attended with standing room only at Masterchef’s Jax Hamilton’s cooking demonstrations. Local musicians and headline act Anna Coddington provided classy entertainment for the day.

The Urban Downhill was the sporting event for Saturday as bikers negotiated a challenging course through town. Zac Williams (Dunedin) took top honours and Alana Colomb won the women’s division. Local mountain biker Brett Jarvie came first in the masters’ category.

The entertainment in Wanaka continued through the weekend, the Sunday Funday attracted lots of families for the Rotary Duck Race, The Radio Wanaka Quest Polar Plunge, Kahu Youth Cardboard Boat Race and there was plenty more delicious wine and food being served on Pembroke Park.

“Lake Wanaka has been an absolute buzz of activity this weekend for the Willowridge Wanakafest. Families, foodies, young and old, there has been something on the programme for everyone to enjoy. We are thrilled with the festival and grateful to all the local businesses and volunteers who support the events,” said Iona Sanders, festival coordinator.

For further information, visit www.wanakafest.co.nz

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