This was pleasing news for Winter FAWC-goers with the four-week event getting officially under way at The Old Church on Friday night.
Brought by Forsyth Barr the opening party still had a "handful" of tickets left and according to Hawke's Bay Tourism general manager Annie Dundas, this event was one not to be missed.
"It will be a fun evening to what should be the start of a big weekend. It is going to be chocka blocka and we have 80 per cent of event tickets already sold."
Mr Kandula said Saturday was shaping up to be a sunny start but expected it to end up being a wet evening, which would carry on through to Sunday.
Luckily on Saturday afternoon FAWC-goers will be inside Holly Bacon, Craggy Range, The Common Room and many other top Hawke's Bay eateries.
Ms Dundas said although a lot of events were sold out there were still tickets left for "This is the BBC - Bangers, Beer and Fermented Cabbage", which takes place at Holly Bacon.
She said there would be a Sauerkraut and Sausage-making session inspired by Oktoberfest with Holly Bacon and Brave Brewing Co taking the lead.
Later that night Ms Dundas said "Aged and Rare" at the Masonic Hotel in Napier would be an evening of incredible wine and food that is worth every penny.
"It will be a very special night and there are still some tickets left," Ms Dundas said.
The festivities of the Winter FAWC carry on through the weekend and will be on every weekend until July 9.
"We have had record revenue numbers so it is going to be a very busy but fun next few weeks."
For more information and to see the programme of events visit: www.fawc.co.nz.