Rarotonga tasted a slice of Germany on the weekend with the return of the annual Oktoberfest.

It was the second year running that On The Beach (OTB) Restaurant owner/operator Phillip Nordt hosted the event after Covid-19 lockdown inspired him to share a sample of his homeland with the Cook Islands.

A steady stream of people enjoyed ideal weather conditions, traditional German specialties, craft beers and live entertainment at the Saturday event.

Nordt, who has been on Rarotonga for eight years, grew up in the southern part of Germany and trained in hospitality for several years in Munich during the 1970s and 80s.

He estimated 150 people turned out across the afternoon and early evening to share the taste of his homeland. That included hand-made sausages, pretzels, bratwurst, sauerkraut, pork roast and dumplings, and apple strudel.

“It was a great big effort by everyone,” Nordt said.

“We will do it again next year when I am going to make it more experimental.” 

Oktoberfest is known as the world’s largest beer and food festival and is held in Munich.

Nordt previously worked for upmarket catering conglomerate Käfer, serving up German cuisine to the punters at some of the Octoberfest festivals.

He last returned to Germany in 2018 when he took one of his chefs to a competition in Frankfurt.

“I think a lot of people don’t realise that Germany is very hospitable, very friendly and there is some great food.

“Germans love singing, great food and great beer.”

Weather conditions were perfect as a steady stream of people made their way to Oktoberfest on Saturday. 21102401

The live entertainment was led by MC Sonny Tokahere and band. Tokahere also works as a chef at OTB. 21102403.