The annual Raglan Crop Swap Pumpkin Festival drew a strong crowd to the bowling club recently with more than 40 entries showcasing the community’s love of growing, cooking and creativity.
Measuring an impressive 191cm in circumference, the festival’s largest pumpkin required a wheelbarrow to transport it into the venue.
Festival organisers said the event was very well attended, with entries spanning giant pumpkins, miniature vegetables, creative pumpkin art and a delicious range of homemade dishes.
Among the winners were the Castle whānau for the largest pumpkin category, while Irene Goed and William Castle took out honours for the smallest entries. Tania Ashman and Alana White won the most unusual category, and Pauline Abrahams and Finley Thomas impressed judges with their pumpkin art creations.
The cooking section proved especially popular, featuring pumpkin tart, scones, ravioli and pumpkin sourdough buns. Judges praised the incredible flavour of the entries, with Susi Webb winning the savoury section, and Belinda Thomas and Hannah Thomas claimed the sweet category.
Other prize winners included Suzanne Prinz for the largest feijoa and Susi Webb for the largest choko.
Thanks to judges Joyce Sweetman and Diane Cederman for their support, along with Jono Hutson from The Lodge for sponsoring the prizes.
