As the flowers bloom and the days grow warmer, Tawa comes alive with excitement for one of its most cherished annual events: Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa. What began as a local market day has evolved over the years into a lively celebration that brings the community together through art, culture, and good times.
So, what can you expect on Saturday, 19 October? Let’s dive into the history, the highlights, and why you won’t want to miss it!
How it all started?
Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa had its humble beginnings in the year 2000, initiated by a small group of dedicated local business owners. Their goal was simple but meaningful: to create an event where the Tawa community could come together, support local clubs and businesses, and connect with one another in the heart of the suburb.
Over the years, we have observed the evolution of this event. We have seen individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds coming together to celebrate this event every year. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa also demonstrates the influence of community-driven initiatives and the profound impact they can have on fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has become part of Tawa's identity - symbolising unity and strength in the face of adversity. In 2020, as Covid-19 restrictions eased and the event was able to take place, we witnessed a large turnout of people who were enthusiastic about reconnecting, enjoying themselves, and embracing all that Tawa has to offer.
As the festival continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a platform for local artists, businesses, and organisations to showcase their talents and contributions. The amazing vibe of the event shows how tight-knit the community is, bringing everyone together and making it feel like one big family, even outside of the festival itself.
How the Event has Grown?
Since its early days, Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has grown both in size and scope. In 2016, the Tawa Ratepayers and Progressive Association transformed into Vibrant Tawa, also known as Tawa Residents Association, where a small sub-committee is the driving force behind organising this event.
Key changes since then have included closing off part of Main Road, adding entertainment stages, inviting food trucks, and expanding the number of stalls. The event boasts three entertainment stages, over 150 stalls, and more than 20 food trucks, along with free activities and entertainment for children, ensuring something for everyone. Despite its growth, one thing has remained constant: Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa is a community event at its core, showcasing local talent, businesses, and groups that make Tawa a truly special place to live.
Mexted Motor Spring into Tawa doesn't just attract locals from Tawa, it has also captivated hearts far and wide and transcends its suburban boundaries. In 2023, the event successfully drew over 9000 attendees from all the neighbouring suburbs, including Porirua, Aotea, Whitby, Churton Park, Johnsonville, Newlands, and Khandallah. Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa has now become the regional 'must do' event like 'Cupa Dupa' and the 'Newtown Festival'.
Free Activities for kids? Music to my ears!!
Yes, you heard it right, all kids' activities are absolutely free. If there’s one thing to be proud of, it’s that this festival remains a family-friendly and community-focused celebration. The organisers have put a great emphasis on creating an inclusive environment where families can come together and enjoy a day filled with fun and excitement. Stacey Richardson - one of the key event organisers says, "We know how expensive it can be for families at events like these, so all children's activities are free. That's why it's such a great day out - kids can enjoy everything without their parents feeling the pressure to spend."
The event has also adopted an eco-friendly approach. Last year, 94% of waste was diverted from landfill, and this year’s goal is to reduce waste generation further. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable cups, water bottles, and food containers to reduce their environmental footprint. After all, small actions can make a big difference.
Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa 2024 - Calling All Volunteers!
A lot of hard work goes into planning an event of this scale, and Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa is no exception. A small team of eight people works tirelessly throughout the year to make it happen, but on the day itself, a volunteer army of 50 is needed to assist with set-up and pack-down, with 20 core team members on duty from the early hours of the morning until evening.
Would you like to help? The organisers are still looking for volunteers, particularly between 6-10 am and 3-6 pm. If you’d like to get involved, email volunteers@springintotawa.nz for more information, or sign up through our Job Vacancy page here.
An Event for the People of Tawa
For the organisers, what makes Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa so special is seeing people connect with one another. "In a world where we’re all so busy, it’s nice to see people stop, chat, and catch up with friends they haven’t seen in a while," Stacey says. "That’s what makes all the hard work worthwhile."
Whether you’re enjoying live music, sampling delicious food, or exploring the many stalls, Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa offers a rare opportunity to pause and reconnect with the community.
Sponsors Who Make It Possible
Of course, an event like this wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of sponsors. Mexted Motors has been the naming sponsor since 2023, providing critical funding to keep this not-for-profit event running. Long-time supporters like Tamsin Davidson One Agency Real Estate, The Borough, Streetwise Coffee Tawa, and many others have also played a key role in helping the festival grow and thrive.
Moreover, Mexted Motors will present its assortment of vintage cars for guests to explore in person. Mexted Motors will display close to 50 iconic and unique vehicles from Mitsubishi's extensive past. This is a great chance to appreciate classic automobiles and take part in the lively Spring Into Tawa festival.
Tawa is Open for Business Too
Wait, there's more! The Tawa Business Group fully supports this event and many of our businesses, some of which have been involved since those early days, are keen to showcase their amazing selection of wares on the day.
Paisley Gift Store and Tawa Books and Post will be offering one-day-only sale specials, Skye Candle and Body Care are having a 15% off sale and Little Annie Pop-in Portrait are offering their Spring mini portrait specials.
In addition to the fabulous food trucks available, many of our finest eateries will be open with Gorgeous Goose Cakes, Kim's Kitchen, Pizza House, White Pepper and A Taste of India also having stands outside their business where you can grab a sustaining snack. Both Embrace Design and Wired Pup Coffee will be open until 5 pm on festival day, offering a special promotion! Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa Special: Make a purchase over $15 at Embrace Design and receive a free pencil & pen cube of your choice! ✏️🖊️
Come by, grab a coffee, and enjoy the festive vibes while shopping local!
You can check all the other Tawa businesses that will be open within the festival area here.
Why You Should Attend?
You should come to support the local business community, you should come to have fun, and enjoy free activities, authentic cuisines from different parts of the world, local crafts, and unique retailers. Please come with reusable bags and containers to help minimize waste and make the event eco-friendly.
Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible day, full of energy, laughter, and community spirit. So, mark your calendars, follow Mexted Motors Spring into Tawa's Facebook or Instagram accounts and we’ll see you from 10 am to 3 pm on 19 October for a day to remember!
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