Auckland’s food heritage is the focus of the beloved Heritage Festival returning for its 22nd year from Saturday 26 September to Sunday 11 October 2026.
The festival serves up two weeks of free and low-cost events and celebrates the stories, people and places that have shaped Tāmaki Makaurau.
This year’s theme, Tastes of Tāmaki: A Heritage Feast provides opportunities for Aucklanders to get a taste of the region’s rich and diverse food heritage: from the original māra of mana whenua, through culinary traditions brought to Aotearoa by immigrant communities and the fusion foods that followed, to the remarkable challenge of feeding US forces across the Pacific during WWII, all woven through the experiences of historic walks, talks, performances, workshops and much more.
Muriel, Carolyn and Pamela Clark, Jack and Betty Davies enjoying a picnic at Little Manly, 1960s. Photo reference: Photograph by Ronald Clark. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 1207-1035 .
Mayor Wayne Brown says Auckland’s history of food offers a fascinating lens through which to explore the city’s past.
“Food brings people together and tells us a lot about who we are as a city. Auckland’s history is shaped by generations of people who have grown, gathered, traded, cooked and shared food from across the world,” says Mayor Brown.
“This festival offers a chance for Aucklanders to tuck into stories they may never have heard before, about the diverse origins of our food culture and to celebrate the heritage that makes our region unique.”
Auckland Council Heritage Manager Noel Reardon says the 2026 programme of events will highlight the many ways food has influenced Auckland’s communities, landscapes and traditions.
“Food is much more than what we eat. It connects us to whenua, whānau, culture and community,” says Noel.
“Through this year’s theme, we’ll explore the people, places and traditions behind what we consume, from historic gardens and orchards to bustling markets, fishing communities, hospitality venues and treasured family traditions.
Two men picking Granny Smiths apples in the Cranwell family orchard at Henderson, 1961. Photo reference: Photograph by John Cranwell. Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 7049-127.
“While Tastes of Tāmaki: A Heritage Feast is our featured theme for 2026, the festival programme also includes a wide variety of heritage experiences covering many other aspects of Auckland’s history, ensuring there is something for everyone.”
Event highlights include:
Central: Pop into Studio One Toi Tū in Ponsonby for an illustrated talk on the history of Italian gastronomy, from ancient to present time. Visit Parnell for a delightful exhibit of New Zealand heritage recipe books. For history, architecture and engineering buffs, join an insightful tour of the city centre! Stop by Te Wharekura on Quay Street for an immersive, sensory-led storytelling experience exploring heritage, kai and connection.
North: Learn about The Māra kai of Te Haukapua, the archaeology and history of Māori gardening in Devonport. Visit Couldrey House to learn of its surprising connection with one of the most famous brands in New Zealand baking history, Edmonds.
South: Join a guided hikoi at Ōtuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve at Ihumātao in Māngere. Step back in time with heritage specialist Cara Francesco to explore how a bustling wartime factory in Pukekohe helped feed US forces across the Pacific. Tour the Swaminarayan Temple in Papatoetoe to explore the Kiwi-Indian history, beautiful architecture and share a traditional vegetarian meal.
East: Enjoy a beautiful heritage setting at Howick’s Bell House for architecture, specialty food products, handmade goods and seasonal produce. Drop in on a walking tour of Howick's historic town centre. Celebrate migrant heritage and savour the flavours of Colombia at Glen Innes Library.
West: Celebrate the beloved and bizarre cookbooks from New Zealand’s past with comedian Te Radar. Discover the history behind the gardens and orchards in West Auckland. Visit Kai West for epic kai stories, whakapapa, whenua, cultures and communities. Make beeswax wraps and learn about bees at the Arataki Visitor Centre.
For the full programme, visit the Heritage Festival website.