More than 100 local businesses and community groups will showcase their talents and products at Te Rauparaha Arena on Saturday 7 June for the Love Local Expo 2025, a celebration of Porirua’s creativity, enterprise and community spirit.
Running from 10am to 4pm, the free event brings together a wide mix of exhibitors — from student-led startups and boutique food vendors to established community organisations and artisan craftspeople. Now in its fifth year, the expo has grown into a cornerstone event for the region, drawing thousands of visitors who come to discover, connect and support local.
“Love Local really brings the best of our city together under one roof, highlighting the sheer amount of innovation, service and quality we have right here in Porirua,” said Mayor Anita Baker. “It’s a real showcase of pride, talent and diversity.”
Foodies will be spoiled for choice with a mouth-watering spread of local flavours on offer — from Pacific and Mediterranean street eats to cupcakes, sourdough crumpets, specialty teas and handcrafted beers. Among the highlights are kai from Cookielicious NZ, Lao Street Food, The Healthy Lunchbox, and The Beer Engine.
Shoppers can browse everything from bespoke fashion and accessories to sustainable homewares and eco-friendly skincare. Local favourites like Aotearoa Apparel, Poi Creations, and Nature Fix NZ will be joined by newcomers including Mary’s Pānikawakawa and The Regal Shortbread Co.
The expo also provides a platform for community groups and services to connect with residents, whether it’s learning about volunteer opportunities with Girl Guiding NZ, enrolling to vote, or supporting local sports clubs and fundraisers.
In a major move toward sustainability, this year’s event will introduce the FillGood reusable service ware system. Food and drink will be served in reusable cups and trays, which can be returned at pink collection bins for cleaning and reuse — a partnership between Porirua City Council, FillGood and NonStop Solutions.
To add an extra touch of fun, attendees will be able to vote for their favourite booth or food truck for a chance to win a year’s supply of Whittaker’s chocolate — that’s 52 blocks of locally made goodness. Voting is open from 10am to 5pm and limited to one entry per person.
Whether you’re after art, food, fashion or just a great day out with the whānau, Love Local Expo 2025 promises a colourful, flavourful and meaningful experience.
Love Local Expo 2025
📍 Te Rauparaha Arena, 17 Parumoana Street, Porirua City Centre
🕙 Saturday 7 June, 10am–4pm
🎟️ Free entry