Spookpunk Magic Takes Over Te Puke!
On Friday 31st October, Halloween came alive on Te Puke’s Main Street as thousands of costumed trick-or-treaters descended on Jellicoe Street for the annual EPIC Te Puke Spookpunk Treat Trail!
With 30+ local businesses and organisations joining the fun, there was something for everyone — from sweet treats and spooky surprises to creative costumes and steampunk flair.
The Te Puke Memorial Hall was once again transformed into a Spooktacular wonderland thanks to Andy from Rockalicious Entertainment and the Te Puke Memorial Hall team. Families flocked in to enjoy the atmosphere, with market stalls, food trucks, slushies & a visit from Darth Vader himself adding to the festive vibe!
This year, we were also joined by the fabulous Lady Hannah Dashary Buckle — a.k.a. Steampunk Tauranga’s Lindsey Morgan — who was here to show everyone what Spookpunk is all about!
Dressed to impress in full steampunk style, Lady Hannah showcased some of her Steampunk costumes & one of her incredible teapot racers, much to the delight of curious tamariki and adults alike.
Another new highlight this year was the Capitol Theatre, creatively decorated by Experience Te Puke – Kiwifruit Capital of the World Society and the Te Puke Scouts. Their spooky spider on a wire and hidden actors gave thrill-seekers plenty of surprises!
Businesses went all out decorating their shopfronts, and attendees got to cast their vote via QR code for the People’s Choice Awards — and the results are in!
2025 Spookpunk Treat Trail “Hostesses with the Ghostesses”
- 1st Place: Studio 64
- 2nd Place: ReeStyle
- 3rd Place: Experience Te Puke – Spooky Capitol Theatre
- Highly Commended: The Packhouse – Lumberjack Brewing
- Highly Commended: Te Puke Florist
Huge congratulations to all our winners — your spooky creativity and steampunk spirit were next level!
And a special shoutout to Pamela Robinson, winner of the $50 EPIC Dollars voucher!
Adding to the fun, Space for Nature rolled out their mobile space, sparking conversations about biodiversity and the environment. Their wonderful German interns joined in too — running a hilarious “Catch a Rat” game that was a hit with tamariki! They were amazed to learn how many children had never been in the bush or noticed local birds and plants — a great reminder of why these community events matter so much.
The entertainment this year was nothing short of spooktacular!
Balloon O’Mania twisted up a storm, creating all sorts of wild and wonderful balloon creations that brought big smiles to little faces. Te Puke Gymsport added an extra layer of fun with a “Trail within the Trail” and a sizzling sausage sizzle that kept energy levels high.
The mighty Titans Armoured Combat team wowed the crowds with their incredible combat demonstrations — showing off their armour, weapons, and medieval skill in true knightly style!
Adding to the thrills, Tyra from Adlam Entertainment gave everyone a fright (and a few laughs) as The Nun — definitely one of the spookiest sightings of the day!
And for those wanting to get into the Halloween spirit in style, Facepaint by Jac and Andrea’s Face Painting offered FREE face painting, transforming kids (and a few brave adults!) into ghouls, goblins, and glittery masterpieces.
It was a fang-tastic afternoon full of laughter, creativity, and community connection. A huge thank you to everyone who dressed up, volunteered, or took part — and to the EPIC Te Puke Board & Team for keeping the Halloween magic (and a little mischief) alive in the heart of Te Puke.
