24 Dungarvon St, Wanaka (03) 443 7805 hello@mymessenger.co.nz mymessenger.co.nz Volume XLVIII | No. 08 | 25 February 2026
Wanaka Meditation & Yoga Retreat 24 – 29 March 2026 Non-residential • The Camp, Lake Hawea Invest in happiness. Retreat yourself. Bookings with Susan Allen • retreats.nz susan@retreats.nz • 021 222 6550
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AUTUMN ON THE TABLE, WAO HARVEST FESTIVAL RETURNS
Submitted by Wao Aotearoa
(03) 4 4 3 1 2 3 8 dr i v e a c co u nt i n g . co . n z
Seasonal produce, practical food skills and community connection Wao’s much-loved Harvest Festival is set to return to Rippon Hall and venues across the district on 14–15 March, bringing a weekend celebration of seasonal produce, practical food skills and community connection. The two-day showcase features hands-on workshops, guided walks and inspiring talks designed to reconnect people with where their food comes from and how it’s grown, gathered and prepared. From rabbit preparation with local hunter Dan Orbell, to herbal tea making and botanical walks with Loran Verpillot, the programme highlights the depth of knowledge held within the region. Festivalgoers can also learn gluten-free baking
with Tanja Schwindt, explore hot and cold smoking techniques, plan productive vegetable gardens with Ali Soper, take part in preserving workshops, and join immersive bush walks and storytelling sessions with Sam the Trapman. A highlight of the weekend is Saturday evening’s Harvest Table, a giant community potluck at Rippon Hall featuring live music from Devil’s Nook, followed by a lively Ceilidh dance. Guests are invited to bring a homemade dish and celebrate autumn’s abundance together. Workshop tickets start from $15, with under-18s free. Book early, tickets are limited. Full details at wao.co.nz/harvest
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