"Foodie" Focus for Mayoral Launch

"Foodie" Focus for Mayoral Launch of New Zealand's Most Delicious Affair

New Zealand's premier food event, The Food Show, is shaping up to be even bigger and better than ever with Mayor Kerry Prendergast officially opening the Wellington show on June 20th.

Food Show Director Dona White of North Port Events is pleased with the official recognition that the mayoral opening will bring.

"It is our second show in Wellington and we are very pleased that Mayor Kerry Prendergast will help us to open the Food Show. It is especially good recognition for our exhibitors who include many fine local and regional food producers."

Dona says a suitably food focused launch activity is planned for the mayor but promises that it will steer clear of smashing champagne bottles which has been proved to be a potentially dangerous activity for Mayor Prendergast at another recent event.

This year's Food Show is aptly described as "New Zealand's most delicious affair" and it is a very apt description with more than 170 companies expected to showcase their export-quality wares. Many companies use the event to launch new products, so for visitors it is a unique opportunity to sample the best New Zealand has to offer.

The Wellington Food Show will feature many regional fine food producers including internationally renowned vodka-makers 42 Below, juice supremo Ed's Juices, chilli and pepper experts Orcona, exponents of Italian food La Bella Italia, smoked eel supplier E N Vanderdrift, purveyors of quality meats Heron Creek Farm and free range egg sellers The Other Side Free-Range Chook Park.

The Food Show is an experience for all the senses as visitors get to see, smell, touch and taste the country's premier food and wine products. They can also hear about the latest innovations in the world of food from industry experts and culinary masters. Last year more than 12,000 Wellingtonians attended and it is expected that even more will embrace this year's event.

One of many special features of The Food Show is The Master Chef Theatre, which includes daily demonstrations from such well known names as Ruth Pretty, Peta Mathias, Julie Le Clerc, Annabelle White, Alison and Simon Holst, and other leading lights of the local and international culinary scene. Complementing these demonstrations is the NZ Wine Society Education and Tasting Experience sessions led by Vic Williams, Bob Campbell, Belinda Jackson and other experts.

For true professionals there is the Wellington Culinary Fare 2003 that sees members of the local cookery and hospitality trade compete in events such as Best Café Style Dish, Beer and Food Matching, Chef of the Capital and more.

All the elements are in place for The Food Show to again be a "must attend" event for Wellingtonians, especially with the Westpac Stadium providing the perfect location. The circular nature of the stadium creates a boulevard-like experience for show visitors with special features sprinkled throughout.

For tickets or more information visit http://www.foodshow.co.nz/ or call 0800 727

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