Beer with bacon, just like in Bavaria

Okere Falls Beer Fest organiser Andi Uhl enjoys a stein of imported German beer. Photo / Stephen Parker

Be transported to Bavaria this week at the Okere Falls Beer Fest.

Traditional beer, festival music, food and dress have combined to create a fun, relaxed and authentic atmosphere in which you want to drink beer, said Okere Falls Beer festival organiser Andi Uhl.

Andi and Sarah Uhl have been organising the event for several years, and said it brought a new concept to the Rotorua community.

With bands playing and a mixture of traditional Bavarian food with the original menu, there is something for everyone.

Mr Uhl said people find it hard to resist the pork knuckles.

"It's a traditional beer festival tent meal with potato salad. People love them."

The Weisswurst sausage to be served at the Sunday German Breakfast would also be a hit.

"It's minced veal and pork back bacon. It goes bloody well with beer," he said.

For those who hate the idea of drinking beer before midday, Mr Uhl said Bavarians have a more moderate approach to beer.

"It's just like enjoying a cup of coffee."

Staff will be dressed in traditional Bavarian garb, and festival goers are encouraged to do the same.

There is even an award for the best-dressed person tomorrow night.

The music, notably from Swiss band Oompas, is a large part of the Bavarian atmosphere, Mr Uhl said.

"The novelty of the music is what makes it so special, we don't often get multi-member brass bands playing here."

Musician Aaron Saxon is performing in a duo tomorrow night, and said it's the only festival of it's kind in New Zealand.

"It's as close at it gets to the real thing. It's a real 'let's have a party and drink beer' type of vibe, and there is always a big turn-out," he said.

Details

What: Okere Falls Beer Fest.
Where: 757A SH33.
When: Until Sunday.
Cost: Friday $20 adult, 12 to 17 year old $15, under 12s free.
Saturday is sold out.