Gourmands hungry for foodie fun have just a few days to wait before the Flavours of Plenty Festival launches its lip-smacking line-up.

Ticket sales open the same day the programme is announced, on February 1.

In 2022 the inaugural Flavours of Plenty festival offered 16 events during four days, spanning the coastal Bay of Plenty from Ōhope to Waihī Beach.

'We can't say too much ahead of next week's launch,” says festival director Rae Baker.

'But I can tell you we have about 40 food-related events kicking off on March 24 including hands-on workshops and foodie tours, contests, sweet treats, cocktails and some pretty exciting multi-course meals hosted by celebrity chefs.

'Last year, we were really just starting out and we had Covid-19 restrictions to contend with. It is much, much bigger this year, with far more happening over a 10-day period.

'We are expecting to attract national interest. The thing I love is that this festival, which celebrates our region's produce, is that it truly benefits everyone it touches. It helps the region economically through tourism and it puts bums on seats in restaurants who then purchase new produce from our regional producers.

'Attendees meet our often unsung food heroes and spread the word and the whole foodscape ecosystem is nurtured. It's kind of wonderful.”

Rae says many of last year's events sold out.

'If you adore food, my advice is to check our website next Wednesday, February 1, and nab what you want right away.

'We don't want anyone going hungry.”

For more details, visit: flavoursofplentyfestival.com