The Tauranga Waldorf School Fair and Open Day in Welcome Bay on Sunday is unlike any of the traditional school fairs held in the Bay of Plenty.

Waldorf schools cherish childhood and children's ways in general, and this shows in the food, the fun and the festivities available to visitors.

Preparation for the fair started months ago, with kindergarten and school children as well as parents creating handmade products. All are made out of natural materials such as wool and wood. These include items such as Christmas tree ornaments, children's bows and arrows and hand-dipped candles.

Visitors to the fair will also be able to sample at least 12 different artisan choices of cuisine.

'I'm really looking forward to the food,” says this year's fair MC, Antoon Moonen.

'The vendors really know how to cook with whole foods and flavours, so there is a cacophony of deliciousness wherever you turn. It's food that your body thanks you for eating.

'What most people appreciate about the Waldorf School Fair is the atmosphere. Kids have such a good time and it is such a bustling, happy place with many activities for them.”

Both younger and older children are well catered for, with separate activities to challenge different levels. In addition, there are three stages with live entertainment, instant raffles and a silent auction.

EFTPOS will be available for cash withdrawals.

Reflecting their ethos, the Waldorf School possibly has New Zealand's most environmentally-friendly fair, with only 4kg of non-recyclables generated last year.

In addition to enjoying the fair, visitors will also have the chance to view a classroom set up to showcase the educational journey through a Waldorf School as well as meet and speak with the teachers.

With a great atmosphere guaranteed, the Tauranga Waldorf School Fair and Open Day is on Sunday, November 12 from 10am-3pm at 364 Welcome Bay Road, Welcome Bay.