2017 Fritter Festival line-up announced

This year's Fritter Festival pumped more than $1 million into Whangarei's economy. PHOTO/JOHN STONE.

Whangarei's Fritter Festival will celebrate its fifth anniversary in style next year, with a line-up including Kiwi music industry pioneers The Feelers and The Black Seeds.

Horns and harmonies would join the line-up with reggae roots band dDub, along with Northland acts Less the Harp - Bream Bay's six piece rock/reggae band; acoustic trio Cake and Eat It; classics-based five piece Rangitane Riot and the soul and funk-influenced Farandicus. Whangarei MC Luke Bird will be the Master of Ceremonies.

The 2017 festival will be held March 25 at Toll Stadium. It is organised by Venues and Events Whangarei, a branch of the district council.

"The festival is going to be a massive celebration of everything Northland has to offer - outstanding talent, delicious food and wine, arts, crafts, good times and great memories," said Venues and Events manager Rachel O'Gorman.

This year's festival attracted more than 5300 visitors and featured offerings from 11 Northland wineries and 22 eateries. The festival contributed $1.16 million to Whangarei's economy with about 1 in 5 guests coming from outside Whangarei.

"All 11 vineyards and wineries from 2016 have already signed up for the five year anniversary," Mrs O'Gorman said. "Almost all restaurants and cafes will be returning but there will be space for about four or five new ones."

Northland eateries interested in participating could contact the council.

Early bird Fritter Festival tickets go on sale on Wednesday, November 2 at 9am from Eventfinda and Forum North Box Office.

Early bird prices are $37 for adults and $17 for children. Groups of 10 or more can buy tickets for $33.30 each.

There would also be three bus services from Matapouri, Mangawhai or Whangarei Heads.