News

FLAVOURS OF PLENTY

Te Moananui ā Toi, the Coastal Bay of Plenty, will host the inaugural Flavours of Plenty regional food festival in April 2022, showcasing the people, creativity and cuisine associated with the region’s much-loved local produce and artisans. The festival will be held over four days, from April 7 to 10, and will feature a plethora of events spanning the Coastal Bay of Plenty, including three headline events: Vegan Vibes, Ōhope’s Local Wild Food Festival, and a new event, Modern Day Hāngī’, from popular chefs and Maketū-based sisters Kasey and Kārena Bird. Tāpoi Te Moananui ā Toi, Tourism Bay of Plenty Tumuaki, General Manager Oscar Nathan says the festival, with its theme ‘Plentiful Produce’, is an opportunity for visitors and local residents to celebrate the region’s horticultural provenance and manaakitanga, from Waihī Beach in the west, to Whakatāne and Ōhope in the east.

“We encourage everyone to save these dates in their calendar now because this festival will be serving up four days of goodness on a plate,” says Oscar. “However adventurous your palate and wherever you are in the Coastal Bay of Plenty, there will be something to savour and delight the tastebuds.”

TASTE OF SUMMER

As well as unveiling a fresh new summery look across its entire range of certified organic, Tauranga-bred kombucha, Good Buzz is adding to its collection a new "Natural" option, which delivers the taste profile of pure kombucha. Available nationwide in New World, Pak'n'Save, Four Square stores, cafes and restaurants and www.goodbuzz.nz

GARETH COWIE JOINS THE TEAM AT THE WHITE HOUSE

Just in time for summer, the White House Te Puna introduces their new head chef. Gareth Cowie grew up and trained in Hamilton before gaining more skills in kitchens around the world, including as Richard Branson’s private chef in the Caribbean. Gareth says, “I became a chef because I had a huge passion for food and travelling, and they work perfectly together.” As for his food, Gareth describes this as a mixed bag of rustic and elegant with big fresh flavours. And this is what you can expect at the White House. “We are keeping the large portions. It’s a trademark of the White House,” says Gareth. “There will be a few classic dishes with a twist. You can’t go wrong with a classic. And we are bringing more fresh summer flavours and working with more local products.” Having been at the White House for a few months now, Gareth says The White House is a great place to work, and Penny and Jo, who have a great reputation, have made him feel so welcome. “I’ve worked all around the world and I’ve never felt so comfortable in a kitchen,” says Gareth.

White House Te Puna 15E Minden Road, Te Puna