This weekend I drove up from Hamilton to attend The Food Show Auckland. We arrived shortly after doors opened and the crowds were already streaming in. I spent the morning tasting new products, catching up with familiar brands and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Lewis Road Creamery had a great presence and it was lovely to chat with their team and sample their breads and butters. I’d also heard good things about Doornuts and finally tried their S’mores Donut — a perfect treat for someone with a big sweet tooth. Later I visited the Sacred Hill stand where the team walked me through several wines, including a special reserve I’m keen to try again.
Many of the brands on display are ones I’ve followed online or seen in cafes, so it was exciting to meet them in person. I stopped by Heilala Vanilla, a favourite for baking, and checked out Chia drink and Yum granola, both of which have been on my radar for a while.
It was great to visit some local favourites too. I picked up more jars from Fix & Fogg to add to my peanut butter collection. One highlight was finally meeting Alex and Amber from Good Buzz Kombucha — a brand I’ve enjoyed as part of my Baker Gatherer journey and hope to collaborate with more in the future.
On my haul were samples and products from a range of great producers: Good Buzz Kombucha, Pic’s Peanut Butter, Red Seal herbal teas, Fix & Fogg peanut butter, Mamas Donuts mix, Home St. sprouted bread, Almighty juice, a Dish Magazine subscription, Opawa wine, St. Andrews Limes hot pickle, L’affare coffee and Telegraph Hill olives.
With so many stands, aromas and flavours to explore, I was glad I brought a tote bag — my arms were full by the end of the day. The Food Show offered a wonderful mix of established brands and new discoveries, and I’m already looking forward to its return to Auckland.
A big thank you to The P.R. Shop for arranging my ticket to The Food Show this July.