The Ruapehu Local Wild Food Challenge is a celebration of creativity, community, and the incredible wild ingredients right on our doorstep. Hosted by passionate Raetihi locals, this event has grown into a showcase of outstanding culinary talent, bringing together locals and visitors alike to craft extraordinary dishes using wild-sourced ingredients.
Supported entirely by local businesses, whānau, and volunteers, the event features an esteemed panel of judges who evaluate each year’s increasingly impressive entries. From venison breakdown demos with Jason Haitana and his team to wild plant cooking demonstrations by Catherine Berry, there’s something to inspire every food lover.
Beyond the food, this whānau-friendly event offers live music, craft markets, and food stalls, creating a vibrant day out for the whole community.
The Wild Food Challenge, created by chef Billy Manson, encourages participants to dive into their natural environment, forage for wild ingredients, and transform them into culinary masterpieces. From gathering to preparation, every part of the process is an adventure—and more effort means more points!
Think you’re up for the challenge? Create a dish using at least one wild ingredient, tell your story, and join us for a day of food, fun, and inspiration.
Beautiful environments. Unique ingredients. Incredible creativity. Don’t miss it!
