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The Auckland Food Show continues to set the benchmark for culinary excellence, bringing together artisan producers, international brands and innovative food creators under one roof. This year’s event showcased a remarkable blend of premium craftsmanship, sustainability and indulgence, highlighting products that transform everyday dining into memorable experiences.
New Zealand’s world-class spirits industry shone through Pōkeno Sauternes Cask Single Cask Whisky; an exceptional expression matured in French Sauternes wine casks. Rich notes of honey, dried apricot, vanilla and gentle oak create a refined whisky worthy of any connoisseur’s collection. In contrast, Sheep Dog Peanut Butter & Jelly Whiskey offered a playful twist, combining creamy peanut butter with sweet berry flavours in a smooth, approachable spirit perfect over ice or in dessert cocktails.
For effortless entertaining, Last-Minute Pink Gin with Lemonade delivered refreshing berry and citrus notes, while Cipriani Bellini and its sophisticated 0% alcohol alternative captured the elegance of the famous Venetian cocktail.
Plant-based innovation continued to impress with Pla*nt Hemp Chicken, whose convincing texture and versatility demonstrated how sustainable eating has evolved. Equally satisfying was Kewpie Plant Based Mayo, retaining the brand’s signature creamy richness while offering a delicious vegan alternative.
Health-conscious consumers were equally well served. Arepa Brain & Gut Soda – Pineapple Ginger combined tropical fruit with warming ginger in a refreshing functional beverage, while Lakanto Golden Monkfruit Sweetener provided a natural sugar alternative ideal for baking and beverages. Herbal Heal Black Sesame Balls offered a nourishing traditional snack rich in roasted sesame flavour.
Authentic international flavours featured strongly throughout the show. Otogi Cheese Ramen delivered comforting creamy noodles ideal for elevating with eggs and fresh vegetables, while Miss Korea Kimchi showcased vibrant Korean fermentation with balanced chilli, garlic and tang. Takis Hot Chilli Pepper Lime satisfied those seeking bold flavour with an addictive combination of fiery spice and zesty lime.
New Zealand producers once again excelled. Sunny Hill Kumara Chips, available in Original, Sour Cream and Stone Roasted varieties, celebrated locally grown kumara with exceptional crunch. Molly Woppy’s Oaty Apricot Super Seedy and Choccy Coconut Ruff biscuits offered handcrafted indulgence, while Valura Raspberry 70% Dark Chocolate balanced rich cocoa with vibrant fruit acidity.
Among the show’s premium pantry essentials, Kiwi Artisan’s White and Black Truffle Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Black Truffle Seasoning effortlessly elevated home cooking. Equally impressive were Egmont Hot Honey, Apostle Chilli Oil, and Apostle Red Wine & Plum Herb Salt, each adding restaurant-quality flavour to everyday dishes.
One of the most comforting discoveries came from West Coast Cocoa, New Zealand’s artisan producer of premium drinking chocolates and chai blends. The luxurious Peppermint Hot Chocolate combined rich Dutch-processed cocoa with refreshing peppermint, while the aromatic Spiced Chai delivered warming café-quality comfort, making both ideal companions for winter.
Rounding out the experience was the timeless excellence of illy Classico coffee, alongside Raad Pepper Silk Luxurious Lotion, beautifully presented in a reusable steel bottle that reflected the growing connection between premium food, design and lifestyle.
The Auckland Food Show once again demonstrated that the future of food lies in exceptional craftsmanship, wellness, sustainability and authentic flavour. From luxury spirits and artisan chocolates to innovative plant-based products and gourmet pantry essentials, the event celebrated the very best of local excellence alongside outstanding international innovation. -by Lalit Bhambhani in Auckland