10am - 3pm
Saturday 4th October 2025

What began in 2015 as a grassroots effort by Tourism West Coast and the Haast community, has grown into a much-loved local tradition that brings together families, friends, and visitors in true West Coast style - proudly hosted by Haast River Motels & Holiday Park, with long-standing support from Heartland Hotel Haast, Rockgas Wanaka and NZ Energy.

At the heart of the festival is the legendary Whitebait Fritter Cook-Off - a sizzling showdown where locals and visitors battle it out for the title of best whitebait fritter on the coast.

From humble beginnings in a small hotel courtyard, this festival now welcomes hundreds for a day of food, market stalls, raffles, and unbeatable West Coast hospitality.

Thanks to tireless volunteers and generous local sponsorship, all proceeds from the event go straight back into the community.

Whether you’re here to compete, taste, or just soak up the atmosphere, this year’s festival promises to be the biggest and best yet. Come celebrate 10 years of whitebait, community spirit, and coastal pride in Haast!