MEDIA RELEASE
3rd July 2006

Wellington Ready to Host National Barista Competition Heat

The National Barista Awards brought to you by Robert Harris are back in Wellington next Monday July 10th at Te Papa. Over 30 top coffee makers from the lower North Island will be vying for a place in the National Finals in Auckland in November. The New Zealand champion will compete at the World Barista Championships in Tokyo, Japan in 2007

For the first time, in 2006, each regional contestant will be required to put their espresso skills to the ultimate test by creating four signature beverages during the competition. A signature beverage is an original espresso-based creation. Within the 15minute competition time each competitor will make four espressos, four cappuccinos and four signature beverages. A panel of seven judges will determine the best two baristas at each regional based on all areas of coffee making expertise.

Now in its sixth year, the National Barista Awards have a proud history of supporting the professional development of New Zealand baristas. The National Barista Awards are the only world-recognised competition in New Zealand and have seen each of our representative’s place within the top ten globally since day one.

Robert Harris has been the major sponsor of the National Barista Awards since they began in 2000. Their consistent support of the Awards demonstrates their on-going commitment to supporting the New Zealand coffee industry. Nic McClean, New Zealand Food Service Manager at Cerebos Gregg’s, says “Robert Harris simply wants to ensure that this professional development of baristas is nurtured and New Zealanders continue to enjoy great coffee!” Anchor is also a major sponsor of the Awards; they have shown their loyal and key support since the National Competition began.

Two finalists have already been found in Christchurch on June 26th they are Carl Sara from Muffin Break, Christchurch and Rob Dempsey of Muffin Break Northlands. Carl and Rob will join the top two from next week’s heat at the finals. There are four regional heats in 2006; Christchurch was held on June 26th, Wellington next Monday July10th, Napier (July 24) and Auckland (August 14). The top two (and possibly a wildcard entry at the judges’ discretion) will go on to compete at the National Finals staged at the Wildbean Café Coffee Festival and Awards in Auckland on November 11th.

The Wellington competition starts at 11am at the Te Papa. The Awards are open to the public free-of-charge and promise to bring you a new level of appreciation for the baristas fuelling your morning caffeine fix!

For further information visit www.nationalbaristaawards.co.nz

ENDS

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