Dame Alison Holst and her son Simon Holst have been confirmed as this years’ celebrity chefs to cook at the 2nd NZ Olive Festival to be held at the Hasting Racecourse in Hawke’s Bay on September 24th.

Jane Libby, Food Hawke’s Bay event organiser says “we are delighted to be welcoming Simon and Dame Alison to Hawke’s Bay to be part of the NZ Olive Festival. “it is a real coup to have such wonderful high profile chefs showing the public attending the cooking demo’s that using Olive Oil in everyday cooking should not be daunting, expensive or only for ‘restaurant chefs’ to embrace however has multiple uses, adds great flavour and is a healthier option than other dairy products”

Best selling author, columnist, television and radio host Alison has just been made Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to the food industry, nearly 50 years after she first beamed into New Zealanders' homes as presenter for television show Here's How.

Son Simon grew up in a "foodie" household; Simon has inherited a passion for food and cooking. He has co-authored 26 cookbooks with his mother Alison, and completed six of his own solo books, with combined sales of over one and a half million copies. In addition to books, he contributes to various New Zealand newspapers and magazines and is a regular contributor on TV’s Good Morning. The general focus of his work is practical, hassle-free and delicious family food.

Dame Alison, 72, said she has enjoyed moving with the changing trends in cooking, and NZ Extra Virgin Olive Oil is one she fully embraces. Both Dame Alison and Simon enjoy using Olive Oil in their cooking, highlighting the health benefits of using oil.”

“With NZ producing high quality and readily available oil these days it is time we promoted it in our everyday cooking. The delicious taste, ease of use and health benefits make it a really fun and exciting product to work with.” says Dame Alison.

The NZ Olive Festival, in its second year have moved venues this year to the Hastings Racecourse, with ample Olive Oil and olive product exhibitors, food and wine stalls, children’s entertainment, oil and olive tastings and of course cooking demonstrations by Simon and Dame Alison there is something for everyone at this years’ Festival.

Running again will be the successful “Chef’s Table’ facilitated by Victoria Wells, Editor of Dish magazine where you can come in to a beautifully set up and hosted marquee by Vidal Estate Winery, enjoy a glass of Vidal wine and chat with one of Hawke’s Bays fantastic chefs. Dame Alison and Simon will also be running two chef table sessions during the day for those lucky people who get a seat first!

Saturday 24th September 2011 10am -4pm,
Hastings Racecourse, Prospect Road Hastings
$5 entry under 15 years free.
www.nzolivefestival.co.nz

ENDS

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