Beerfest is 'Prost' of the town

GOOD TIMES: The Okere Falls Beer Fest celebrates German beer and music. PHOTO/FILE

THE annual Okere Falls Beerfest has grown to become a spring institution as locals and visitors throng to the eastern side of the lake for the German celebrations.

Beerfest began with German-born Andi Uhl, husband of Okere Falls Store owner Sarah Uhl, importing "Bier" direct from his hometown and neighbouring 700-year-old brewery in Kaufbeuren, Germany.

The taste of the imported wheat beers, pilsners and radlers combined with long beer-hall tables and festivalgoers wearing traditional Dirndls and Lederhosen, make Beerfest an unforgettable, authentic experience.

"It's really a celebration of community, good food and good beer which the Europeans do well," said Mrs Uhl.

"We have added a great location and music and if you have this, it can be fantastic.

"We started really small, from just a community event, and each year we've worked out ways to improve and have had great support from the Rotorua council and other people wanting to help out and get involved."

The festival has had a range of live music throughout the week, and top of the bill tonight is The Solomon Cole Band.

Hailing from Waiheke Island, it straddles raw-blues, rock'n'roll and soul music.

Tomorrow is a sell-out, and as of yesterday there were limited tickets left for tonight. However, Sunday will be a free show with live music throughout the day.

Local band Open Arms is taking to the stage from 12.30pm-2.30pm.

The Pacifica Beats finalist will bring groovy reggae and soul harmonies while everyone else tucks into traditional German food.

The main attraction is Swamp Thing, the two-man blues juggernaut of Michael Barker and Grant Haua.

"People will be ecstatic when they hear Swamp Thing is back," said festival organiser Kimi Chater.

Pretzels with brie, bratwurst in a bun with sauerkraut, delicious Sausage Griller Burgers and more are also available every day.