Organisers of the Bluff Oyster and Food Festival have warned this year's event may be the last, with costs, supply pressures and the challenge of running regional events all weighing on its future.

Organisers have expressed concern that the 2026 festival could be the last. The festival is an iconic Southland food event.

Rising costs and oyster availability are among the pressures facing the event.

For Southland, the festival is more than a day out; it is a regional identity marker and a drawcard for visitors.

The key question is whether community and sponsor support can secure the festival's future.