The Gala dinner was the first of its kind in Bay, with an outstanding amount of support it is set to be the first of many. Over 3,500 votes were received over the fourteen categories with the demand for tickets to the awards evening exceeding availability.
The awards were a chance for the winners to share their successes with their peers and fellow finalists as well as celebrating being the best in their field. Hosted by local Masterchef winners Karena & Kasey Bird, 250 guests were treated to dinner and entertainment by local musician Lisa Hawkins and internationally renowned DJ duo Sweet Mix Kids.
The event was organised by the Restaurant Association of New Zealand Bay of Plenty Committee, made up of seven local industry professionals. “These awards are a chance to showcase the hospitality industry and reward those that excel in our industry” says Andrew Targett, Bay of Plenty Branch President. “The Bay Hospitality Awards could not operate, celebrate and give back to the hospitality industry without the support of our sponsors. We are looking forward to the 2017 awards with planning already underway”.
For more information, go to bayhospitalityawards.co.nz.
Bay Hospitality Awards 2016 Winners:
| Meadow Fresh Outstanding Barista | Joannes (Hans) Kraenzlin |
| Calnar Business Systems Outstanding Café | Love Rosie |
| Moana New Zealand Emerging Talent | Jessica Payne – The Pizza Library Co. |
| Bidvest NZ Outstanding Street Food | Johneys Dumplings |
| Menumate Point of Sale Outstanding Caterer | Good Things Kitchen |
| Lion Co Outstanding Bartender | Katie Short – The Barrio Brothers |
| Pernod Ricard NZ Outstanding Bar | Mount Brewing Bar |
| Menumate Point of Sale Outstanding Front of House Team | Flying Burrito Brothers |
| Mills Reef Winery People’s Choice | Flying Burrito Brothers |
| Spark Business Outstanding Sales Rep | Dan Shea – Mills Reef |
| Independent Liquor Outstanding New Venue | The Rising Tide |
| Bidvest Tauranga Outstanding Chef | Ian Harrison |
| OneMusic Outstanding Design/Ambience | Macau Bar & Kitchen Lounge |
| Gilmours Tauranga Outstanding Restaurant | Harbourside Restaurant |
