Kāpiti Producers Shine at Fine Food New Zealand
A collective of growth-focused, innovative food and beverage entrepreneurs from the Kāpiti Coast is preparing to showcase their products at Fine Food New Zealand, the country’s premier trade show, held in Auckland at the end of June.
Seven local producers will represent the district: Apostle Hot Sauce, The Bond Store, Goldies Wholefoods, Elemental Cider, Rose’s Chilli Crisp, Coral Tree Organics, and Purebread.
Known for their creativity, sustainability, and market-savvy innovation, Kāpiti’s food and beverage sector continues to thrive. Their attendance at Fine Food NZ highlights the region’s commitment to quality and collaboration.
“Attending as a collective has opened up the opportunity to attend Fine Foods which we wouldn't have been able to afford to do one our own, we are grateful for the support of the council with their logistical help.” says Lydia Harfield, co-owner of Apostle Hot Sauces.
“It's great to have fellow Kapiti businesses to bounce ideas off, collaborate and share resources with for large events like this and most importantly be there together to support each other, there is a real sense of comradery.”
Fine Food New Zealand attracts more than 7,000 trade attendees, including key buyers and national distributors, offering exhibitors a unique opportunity to generate leads, build brand awareness, and forge valuable industry connections.
“The show gives us a platform to highlight the quality of what’s produced right here on the Kāpiti Coast,” says Chris Barber, co-owner of The Bond Store.
“Collaborating with fellow local producers we’ve already made new business connections and gained valuable insights.”
This initiative is part of the Kāpiti Coast Economic Development Strategy led by the Economic Development Kotahitanga Board (EDKB), which supports a Food and Beverage Game Plan and a well-connected cluster of over 100 local producers.
Neil Mackay, chair of the EDKB said “This is a great example of the benefits of the cluster and the collaborative approach that achieves greater market profile for artisan producers”. Piloted successfully in 2023, the shared stand approach helps businesses scale efficiently and access new markets.
“This collective approach brings to life the vision created by the industry—for the industry,” says Barber.
“It proves how collaboration can position Kāpiti as a leader in premium, sustainable food and beverage production.”
“This is a great example of the benefits of the cluster and the collaborative approach that achieves greater market profile for artisan producers”
– Economic Development Kotahitanga Board chair, Neil MacKay