Congratulations Hastings District Council – NZEA Award Win!
A big congratulations to Hastings District Council, who have just taken home the win at the NZ Events Association Event Awards for their work on the Hastings Meatball Festival.
The award recognises not only the scale and creativity of the festival, but also the way it celebrates Hastings’ food culture and community spirit.
A bite of history
The Hastings Meatball is a beloved local classic with Dutch roots. It was popularised in the 1950s by Gerard and Ina Denijs, who introduced the snack at their Lilac Bakery on Heretaunga Street. Drawing inspiration from Dutch bitterballen, their hearty meatball quickly became a Hawke’s Bay favourite. Over the decades it found its way into bakeries, cafés, and school canteens, becoming part of the region’s everyday food culture. (Local history differs on the exact first year — 1953 vs 1956 — but all agree that the Lilac Bakery was central to its rise.)
Behind the lens
I had the privilege of photographing the Hastings Meatball Festival for Council in March this year. From the sizzling street food stalls to the live entertainment and the vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city, it was an event that captured both the flavour and energy of Hastings at its best. The images highlighted not only the delicious food on offer but also the smiles, laughter, and community pride that filled the day.
Celebrating success
It’s fantastic to see Hastings District Council recognised nationally for their work. The Meatball Festival is a brilliant example of how local food and creativity can bring people together, and I’m proud to have played a small part in documenting it.
