THE NEW ZEALAND ITALIAN FESTIVAL - WELLINGTON

The 2011 Italian  Festival was bigger and better - more entertainment, more exhibitors, the Sbandieratori - and for the first time in Wellington, the Long Table Lunch!

On Sunday 6th November 2011, the Westpac Stadium became once again a vibrant corner of Italy and showcased everything Italy is famous for all over the world – from food and beverages to art, jewellery, interior design, motors, holidays destinations and more...

Our programme for the day included cooking demonstrations, entertainment for children, live Italian music, and for the very first time in New Zealand, performances by a group of Italian flag wavers (Sbandieratori) who came from Italy for this event.

For the first time in Wellington, the Festival also featured the Italian Long Table Lunch - check this page for more information.

Chef James Perry of NMIT in Nelson held two cooking demonstrations at the Festival. He demonstrated a Salmon dish and a Risotto. Chef Gabriele Cagnetta of La Bella Italia demonstrated a Ravioli dish. Check the home page of La Bella Italia's website to download the recipes!

Experience a day in Italy... with the New Zealand Italian Festival in Wellington!

The Italian Sbandieratori (Flag Wavers)

For the first time in New Zealand, a group of Sbandieratori visited Wellington and were our special guests at the 2011 Italian Festival. The Sbandieratori are a traditional group of Italian flag wavers that always accompany Italian celebrations and make parades very lively with their costumes and their shows.

The Sbandieratori made several performances at the Festival and also performed in Wellington in various events leading up to the 6th November.

You can see a video of the Italian Sbandieratori here.