Who Will Represent NZ As Countries Best Barista?

Who Will Represent New Zealand As The Countries Best Barista?

New Zealand’s top nine baristas are gearing up today in a bid to become the ‘Robert Harris National Barista of the Year 2005. Pressure is mounting after weeks of practice and preparation by these young Baristas, all with their sights firmly set on the gold trophy and magnificent prize; to represent New Zealand at the World Barista Championships in Bern, Switzerland in May 2006. The nine contenders are made up from the top two winners from each of the regional heats which were held during July and August plus one Wild Card entry and are as follows:

Luciano Marcolino, Vivace Espresso, Christchurch

Melissa Hawker, Muffin Break Bush Inn, Christchurch

Te Kawa Robb, Mojo, Wellington

Monique Lina, Springlands Garden Centre and Café, Blenheim

Michelle Rutherford, Robert Harris Café, Taupo

Jessica Miskin, Sugarloaf Café, Napier

Ben Boyle, Altura, Auckland

David Huang, Epicurean Workshop, Newmarket, Auckland

Paul Glover, Ark Café, Auckland

The Robert Harris National Barista Awards are the only world accredited barista championships in New Zealand. The New Zealand final championship is in line with the format and standards of the World Barista Championships with each contestant required to make four espressos, four cappuccinos and four identical signature beverages within 15 minutes. Throughout the duration of each baristas competition time they are also required to give verbal interaction with the Master of Ceremonies and the seven judges.

As the most respected and only world accredited Barista Awards in New Zealand, the National Barista Awards are sponsored by a number of highly regarded companies and associations including; Robert Harris, Anchor, Faema, DaVinci, HSI and The Restaurant Association of New Zealand.

This event is open to the public as part of the Wildbean Coffee Festival at Taupo’s Great Lake Centre. The Robert Harris National Barista Awards have free entry and start at 3pm.

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