Horowhenua Taste Trail is a not for profit organisation governed by the Horowhenua Taste Trail Trust. The Trust is made up of representatives from the four founding producers of Tendertips Asparagus, Genoese Foods, Turks Poultry and Woodhaven Gardens, as well as one community member. The Trust govern the event, ensure it is financially sustainable, and set the strategic direction for the event. The event is managed and coordinated by a Committee made up of producers, an event manager, and community volunteers. In 2017, the committee worked approximately 2000 hours to deliver the event.
Our Philosophy: To create a collective voice to showcase the depth and breadth of produce developed in the region, through a series of behind-the-scenes experiences for one day only. Our Values
Transparent,
Engaged,
Sustainable,
Authentic,
Quality,
Proudly Rural.
Our Objectives
Promote Horowhenua as a destination,
Celebrate the variety of quality food producers,
Build a connection with the end consumer,
Showcase Excellence,
Provide a unique yet authentic experience,
Help eliminate the rural/ urban divide,
Celebrate our local people and our employees,
Highlight careers in the industry,
Highlight our contribution to sustainability.
In addition to the extensive work of the Trust and the Committee, like most events the Taste Trail could not happen without tremendous community support.
Each year community groups and schools are involved in varying degrees to help deliver a successful day. Ranging from parking, information stands, face painting, site hosting, food preparation and much more.
We really value the support we get from community groups but also acknowledge that they benefit from being part of our event by engaging with the wider community and celebrating our beautiful district.
Community groups who helped make the event happen included: Altrusa Levin, Horowhenua Learning Centre, Waiopehu College, Salvation Army, Waitarere Scouts and Federated Farmers.