The Savour Northland Challenge Returns – A Celebration of Flavour, Innovation & Regional Pride
The Savour Northland Challenge Returns – A Celebration of Flavour, Innovation & Regional Pride
Northland’s finest chefs are once again stepping up to the plate this October, ready to showcase the very best of our region’s produce and beverages in the highly anticipated Savour Northland Challenge – proudly sponsored by Northland Inc.
This annual culinary celebration invites restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars from across Tai Tokerau to craft extraordinary dishes using only local ingredients, perfectly paired with a Northland-made beverage..
This year’s entries are brimming with creativity, innovation, and Northland pride. Expect mouth-watering flavours and daring pairings that push culinary boundaries: the competition promises a feast for the senses.
Kaipara Shark and Sweet Tatties with house-made lemon fizz, a Hāngi Kumara Ice Cream with Yorkshire Pudding & Macadamia Brittle paired with a Marsden Late Harvest Muscat or a Kingfish Crudo paired with a Paroa Bay Pinot Gris? Or maybe Pāua, Potato and a Landing Chardonnay? It’s time to tantalise your tastebuds and explore the tastes of Tai Tokerau!
The Savour Northland Challenge celebrates the exceptional diversity of our local ingredients, including:
- Sustainable Haku Kingfish from Ruakākā
- Sweet and earthy kumara
- Plump and juicy oysters
- Citrus, sub-tropical fruits & vegetables
- Award-winning Northland cheeses
Paired beverages range from boutique wines, craft beers, and small-batch spirits to locally roasted coffees and Northland-inspired soft drinks – ensuring there’s something for every palate.
“This challenge is about more than great food and drink – it’s a celebration of Northland’s incredible bounty and the passionate people who bring it to life,” says Jackie Sanders, co-Director of Savour Northland “Every dish tells a story about our land, our sea, and the creativity of our culinary community.”
From the innovative Māha Shabu Shabu by Māha Restaurant, paired with The Landing Chardonnay 2023, to the vibrant Northland Greek Moussaka at Local Talent Taverna served alongside a tangelo, saffron & rosemary soda – this year’s line-up is a true showcase of regional abundance, with chefs encouraged to create unforgettable dishes that showcase our unique flavours in their culinary style.
Food lovers are invited to explore the full list of participating venues, taste the entries, and discover the magic of Northland’s local food scene this October. Don’t miss the chance to indulge, support local, and celebrate the Northland Inc Savour Northland Challenge 2025 – where every bite and sip tells the story of our region.
Visit: www.savournorthland.com
EVENT DETAILS
When: 1–31 October, 2025
Where: Across Taitokerau Northland
Website: www.savournorthland.com
Media Enquiries and Image Requests:
Jackie Sanders – Creative Director, Savour Northland
021 373 739 | jackie@jacman.co.nz