Waikato food businesses are coming together to discover the recipe for success with the Waikato Food Forum.
Hosted by local champions of the regional food scene Waikato Food Inc, the day on June 4 aims to provide more than just food for thought.
Local food producers and hospitality businesses are joining their peers alongside key regional stakeholders and guest speakers.
Angela Clifford CEO of EAT NEW ZEALAND. Image courtesy of Waikato Food Inc.
“The Waikato region has a wealth of world class producers and eateries, many of which go under the radar,” said Waikato Food Inc chair Vicki Ravlich-Horan.
“Waikato Food Inc aims to change this by raising the profile and calibre of food and hospitality in Waikato. To do this we need to bring everyone together and forge a strong connected community.”
The afternoon is facilitated by Angela Clifford, CEO of Eat New Zealand, a movement initiated by chefs and people in the food business with the aim of highlighting the quality and vast array of edible resources available in New Zealand.
Guest speakers include Sarah Meikle, CEO of Visa Wellington On A Plate, an event that has put Wellington on the international food map.
Wendy Voegelin, growth programme specialist of Auckland Tourism Events & Economic Development, will also be contributing to the day with her experience growing and promoting food businesses in Auckland.
“Waikato Food Inc has been championing the depth and breadth of our local food industry for more than six years,” Ravlich-Horan said. “We have been doing this almost entirely without any help from regional or local government. The forum is an opportunity for us to learn from other successful regions while also creating our own unique story.”
A panel discussion will hear presentations from those involved in the economic, social and cultural development in the region, as well as local food producers and business owners.
The goal of the Waikato Food Forum is to enlist the help of everyone dedicated to seeing the region thrive and who want to know more about Waikato Food Inc.
• The Waikato Food Forum is on Tuesday June 4 at Zealong Tea Estate, Hamilton. Waikato Food Inc is a not-for-profit group dedicated to seeing Waikato recognised as a world-class food and beverage region.
