It’s the closest you’ll get to having a Cook Islands holiday without getting on a plane. For the first time, the annual Flavour of Plenty is giving locals the opportunity to experience authentic ‘Island Vibes’ on Sunday March 30.

Chef Tahlee Henry grew up in New Zealand with strong family ties to Aitutaki and is excited to share her distinctive Cook Islands culture.

“A lot of New Zealanders have been to Rarotonga, so they know the genuine warm hospitality of Cook Islanders as well as the amazing food,” she said.

“This is one of the few events during Flavours that welcomes kids, and we have plenty lined up to keep them entertained.”

From interactive Ei Katu flower crown demonstrations to live dancing, island drums and singing from the local Kuki Airani culture group, the casual lunchtime event will be ‘walk and talk’ style.

“Bringing people together over kai, chatting and laughing over food is what it’s all about,” said Henry.

“We’ll be making pink potato salad, chop suey, Raro fried chicken, ika mata, donuts and coconut buns. By the end, we hope to get everyone up dancing and enjoying their Sunday.”

“It’s the fourth year we’re organising the Flavours of Plenty Festival and it just keeps getting bigger and better,” said Tourism BOP general manager Oscar Nathan.

“This time, we’re offering more than 50 different foodie events at locations right across the coast, from Waihī Beach to Wainui, near Whakatāne, and at some of the best hospitality venues in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.”

Tickets have been selling well.

“Fifteen events have already sold out and we’re really looking forward to launching the first day of the festival this Thursday,” said Nathan.

Island Vibes is on from 11am – 2pm, Sunday March 30 at The Cargo Shed, 5 Dive Crescent. For tickets for this event and information about all the Flavours of Plenty experiences, www.flavoursofplentyfestival.com