🌿 Bay of Plenty Orchid Show Blooms Bright in Rainy Te Puke

The Bay of Plenty Orchid Society hosted its annual orchid show over the weekend at the Te Puke Memorial Hall. The event took place on Friday and Saturday, running from 10am to 4pm each day.

Visitors enjoyed a stunning variety of orchid displays presented by both the Bay of Plenty Orchid Society and the Tauranga Orchid Society. In addition to orchids, a range of other plants—such as hoyas, tropical fruit trees, and various pot plants—were available for purchase.

Entry to the show was $3 for adults, drawing plant lovers from across the region. Society president Cliff Goodchild mentioned that although the event was held earlier in the season compared to other shows, it remained a favourite among both visitors and vendors.

He also expressed hope that younger enthusiasts who attended might consider joining the society to help ensure the passion for orchids continues into the future.

Despite the heavy rain that nourished the earth, the Te Puke community flourished with enthusiasm at the recent Bay of Plenty Orchid Show, held at the Memorial Hall. With petals unfurling and spirits high, the venue was transformed into a celebration of color, foliage, and floral finesse.

Troppo, an initiative of the Vector Group Charitable Trust, was honored to participate—rain or shine! Our stall stood out like a tropical oasis, buzzing with chatter and curiosity as we showcased an exotic array of rare tropical and subtropical plants that captivated both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers.

Our display was a vibrant tapestry of exotic flora. The frangipanis stood out with their iconic, fragrant blooms—sweetly perfuming the air and embodying the laid-back elegance of a tropical paradise. One plant that drew a lot of love was the Golden Lotus Banana (Musella lasiocarpa), whose golden-yellow lotus-like bracts had passersby stopping in their tracks.

We also had something special for the fruit fanatics. The Ketcot apricots, known for their punchy sweet-tang flavor, promised future orchard rewards. The ever-curious Jaboticaba—also known as the ‘tree grape’—got people talking with its glossy purple fruits sprouting directly from its trunk, looking like nature’s own take on chocolate-dipped berries. Then came the crowd-pleasing Inga Bean, or “ice cream bean,” whose sweet, fluffy pulp had everyone dreaming of dessert straight from the garden.

And let’s not forget the Davidson Plum, with its dark purple fruits packed full of antioxidants—both a garden statement and a health boost. Our pineapples were also popular, their tangy-sweet scent evoking images of barefoot summers and homegrown tropical feasts.

As always, Troppo is proud to stand by our roots—supporting and collaborating with the wider Te Puke community. As an initiative of the Vector Group Charitable Trust, we take pride in working alongside local groups, including those supporting our elderly, helping to foster connection, curiosity, and resilience through plants and shared knowledge.

The downpour may have soaked our shoes, but it didn’t dampen our spirits. 🌧️💚 The energy in the hall was electric—proof that rain can’t stop a good plant party.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who braved the wet to join us. Your passion keeps our mission alive: to grow not just beautiful plants, but thriving, supportive communities rooted in connection and care.

A huge shoutout goes to the Te Puke Fire Brigade volunteers for their invaluable help with both the setup and pack down of the event. Their dedication and support ensured everything ran smoothly, allowing the orchid show to proceed without a hitch. These volunteers not only assisted with the physical logistics but also demonstrated the true spirit of community, always ready to lend a hand and make sure everything was in place for a successful event. Their efforts were greatly appreciated by all involved!

Additionally, a big thank you to Sarah Olsen, from the family behind the popular Plantfest event, for her assistance with ticketing and cash-out during the show. Her efficiency and friendly service helped keep everything flowing seamlessly, ensuring a smooth experience for attendees and organizers alike. Sarah’s contribution added to the overall success of the event, and her support was deeply appreciated.

Together, we’re planting the future. One frangipani, banana, and community at a time.

— 🌱 Visit us at troppo.nz to explore more of our tropical and rare edibles, and see how you can get involved in our growing community.

Bay Of Plenty Orchid Society Show Results 5th April 2025