Being a vegan is no laughing matter, but there'll be plenty of meat-free humour to tickle the ribs at the first ever Whangarei Vegan Expo at the end of the month.
Organised by the Whangarei Vegans group, the expo, at Whangarei Intermediate School on October 29, is billed as a delicious, informative and inspiring event for vegans and those who want to learn more about the animal-product-free lifestyle.
Speakers and presenters include 2013 MasterChef New Zealand winner Aaron Brunet, vegan triathlete Alaina Brent, US health advocate Dr Michael Klaper, four time Mr NZ Natural Dusan Dudas, clinical microbiologist David Hammer and a performance from stand-up comedian StickNo Bill.
The Gaya Tree will provide the live music, while there will also be an art exhibition honouring animals, cooking demos and vegan food on offer.
Tickets are $5 with children under 13 free and are available from Mint Floral, in Robert St, Paper Bag Princess, in Bank St and Puti Puti Ra Organics in Walton St.
Veganism is a type of vegetarian diet that excludes meat, eggs, dairy products and all other animal-derived ingredients. Many vegans also do not eat foods that are processed using animal products, such as refined white sugar and some wines.
The Whangarei Vegan Expo is at Whangarei Intermediate on October 29 from 10am to 4pm.