NZ Life & Leisure Spirit of New Zealand Award

Akaroa Salmon

An accolade celebrating the pioneering and innovative spirit of kiwi producers. Giving the award, NZ Life & Leisure editorial director Kate Coughlan explained that since Akaroa Salmon was established in the 1980s by father and son Tom and Duncan Bates they have had to forge their own path.

As one of the first King Salmon producers in New Zealand, the team had to figure out everything from scratch including building the first cages and platforms themselves and hauling them to Lucas Bay on a barge. Over the years the Bates shaped the business with a strong farming philosophy, emphasising integrity and environmental care.

Emerging Business Champion

Opito Bay Salt Co

Its salt is a natural combination of sunshine, seawater and patience. They were awarded five medals; including two Gold Medals for Opito Bay Salt Co, Natural Sea Salt and Opito Bay Salt Co, Rosemary Sea Salt.

Sustainability Champion

Bostock Brothers Organic Free Range Chicken

The sustainability judges’ said Bostock Brothers had an ‘impressive circular story of the food supply chain and developments in renewable energy, mixed land use and waste.

FMCG Business New Product Champion

Nut Brothers, Peanut Butter Probiotic Cranberry

Founded by three nut butter-loving mates over a beer in 2014, Nut Brothers now has a diverse range of nut butters with Peanut Butter Probiotic Cranberry being its new addition. The judges said ‘Great peanut flavour and crunchy texture. Fruit element marries nicely with the crunch adding softness and a touch of sweetness.’

Outstanding Free-From Product

Robbies Artisan Collection, Noir Gärlik, Black Garlic Sauce, Gluten Free

The judges said ‘Wow! A great finishing sauce. So many ways it could be used to add depth and flavour’. Robbies – was established by Josie Robinson when she was hankering for the goodness of homemade produce bringing up her children. 

Outstanding Fresh Produce

Salty River Farm, Lettuce Baby Leaf & Edible Flower Mix

The judges noted the butterhead lettuce was ‘beautifully sweet and nutty and the flowers, lovely’.

Kiwis’ Favourite Food Producer

Matangi Angus Beef

Matangi Angus Beef also won a Gold Medal for its Matangi Bone in Ribeye Tomahawk Steak

Kiwis’ Favourite Farmers’ Market

Otago Farmers Market

Otago Farmers Market is a perennial favourite with market shoppers - it's the third time the Market has won this award! The Saturday morning market held at the Dunedin Railway Station attracts up to 65 stall holders each week.