PUMPKINS, PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
It’s that time of year again when locals compete with passion and flair, from playful contests for unusual shapes to serious battles for the biggest pumpkin. These events bring people together, showcasing talent, dedication, and community spirit.
The Puhoi Pub Giant Pumpkin Growing Competition
Seed collection until Sunday 2 November 2025
Weigh in Sunday 5 April 2026, from 1pm
The Puhoi Pub
Pumpkin growing competitions have gained popularity nationwide, and Puhoi’s own event is now entering its fourth year – with a shared dream of claiming the New Zealand record, currently an impressive 844 kilograms. Passionate locals are determined to grow their way to glory, bound by a few simple rules: no outsourcing, pumpkins must be grown by the entrant on their own property.
The season begins in November and ends with the official weigh-in in April, when one grower will be crowned champion. The winner receives the coveted Pumpkin King T-shirt and earns a place on the competition’s hand-crafted trophy – a proud symbol of Puhoi’s spirited community.
Lance 027 272 7561
The Grand Pumpkin Growing Contest
Registration open until Saturday 28 March 2026, 9am
Weigh in Saturday 28 March 2026, 10am
Matakana Village Farmers’ Market
Whether it’s a giant, a cutie, or a celebrity lookalike, The Grand Pumpkin Growing Contest invites everyone to get growing. Last year’s winners included awards for the tiniest, prettiest, ugliest, and even the most spectacularly shaped pumpkins – proving this competition isn’t all about size!
All pumpkin varieties are welcome, with Atlantic Giant seeds and Musquée de Provence seedlings available from Wildly Curious at the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market from mid-November. Gardeners keen to join in can register their interest to be first in the know when seedlings arrive. And remember these pro tips: pumpkins love compost, water – and a little sweet talk.