New Zealand’s biggest vegan event is back in Christchurch this year, bringing tasty planet-friendly treats to the masses.

Organisers call it “the Big Day Out of vegan food festivals”, but unlike the Big Day Out, the Vegan Expo is only getting stronger. Originally launched in 2007, the Vegan Expo has been bringing delicious plant-based temptations, cruelty-free stalls and inspiring talks to anyone interested in following or finding out about the vegan diet.

Head along and you’ll find live local music, cooking demos, inspiring not-for-profit groups to chat to, documentaries, feature films and shorts to watch, as well as a range of experts ready to share their vegan experiences with you.

Then there’s the food. If you still think vegan food is all about salad, pop into the expo and have your mind changed. You’ll find delicious burgers, sushi, Chinese dumplings, Egyptian street food, platters of Moroccan goodies and a load of sweet treats. You’ll find vegan offerings from well-known food producers, like Christchurch locals Utopia Ice, as well as Eagle Brewing, Proper Crisps and L’Affare Coffee.

In between browsing the stalls, you can keep the little ones entertained in the Kids Zone, where they can colour, experiment with the sensory table, paint pet rocks and make seed bombs.

Haere-roa, University of Canterbury, Sunday 8 November

veganexpo.co.nz