Everybody Eats brings open-air community meal back to downtown Auckland
Photography Supplied.
Auckland’s city centre is set to transform into a giant open-air dining room this weekend, as Everybody Eats brings its community meal back to Te Komititanga.
Taking place on Saturday 28 March, this free lunch event invites people from all walks of life to sit together and share an incredible meal, many of which are created using rescued food that would otherwise be disgarded. Following the success of last year’s event, which drew more than 650 diners, the Everybody Eats team are expecting another strong turnout as locals, workers and visitors come together in the heart of the city.
At its core, the event is far bigger than just a meal. It’s a chance to bring community together while tackling two major culinary issues, food waste and food insecurity. Globally, more than one-third of food produced is wasted, while in Aotearoa, New Zealand many households struggle to put food on the table at all with one in four Kiwi kids living in homes where there simply isn't enough to go around.
Everybody Eats General Manager Amy Tew says the initiative shows how surplus ingredients can be transformed into something meaningful.“By serving high-quality meals made in part with rescued food, we’re reducing landfill waste and expanding access to nutritious food.”
The event reflects the organisation’s wider mission, pay-what-you-can, a mission designed to ensure everyone has a place at the table, regardless of their circumstances. Set in Te Komititanga, the it also highlights the role of shared public spaces in creating connection.
Auckland Live Director Daniel Clarke says "Events like this help bring energy and inclusivity to the city centre, turning everyday spaces into places of belonging." With long shared tables, volunteer chefs, and a welcoming atmosphere, the lunch is designed to feel open and accessible to all.
The event runs from 11:30am to 1:30pm on Saturday 28 March. Guests can choose to contribute through a pay-it-forward or Koha on the day, helping support future meals for others.
Learn more about the Everybody Eats mission HERE
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126
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