Purveyors of Hawke’s Bay’s finest food and wine venues gathered at the Restaurant Association’s hospitality awards in Napier on September 15.
The awards recognise the best dining establishments and individuals of the region, as voted by their peers in the hospitality industry.
Commenting on their significance, Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois said, “Hawke’s Bay is more than just a place on the map; it’s a region where food, wine, and hospitality are woven into the fabric of the community.
“These awards are not just about recognising individual excellence but about celebrating the collective success of a region that takes immense pride in what it offers to locals and visitors alike. It’s crucial that we take a moment to celebrate the hard work and creativity that keep Hawke’s Bay on the culinary map of New Zealand.
“It is crucial that we take the time to pause and celebrate our successes, recognising the hard work and passion that our peers pour into their craft.
“These awards are a testament to the remarkable talent and innovation that make this region a standout destination, and they provide an opportunity for us to honour the individuals and establishments that elevate the hospitality industry.”
The finalists came together for a night of celebration at a cocktail event at the Napier War Memorial Centre, attended by Mayor Wise and Mayor Hazlehurst.
Hawke’s Bay Hospitality Awards 2024 Winners
Mediaworks People’s Choice:
The Puketapu
The People’s Choice Award, which is determined by public vote, was awarded to The Puketapu, highlighting the establishment’s popularity and strong connection with the local dining public.
Allied Liquor & Bottle-O Supreme Individual:
Gretta Carney, Hapī
Gretta took home the Supreme Individual Award, recognising her outstanding contribution to the industry. As a homeopath and co-founder of Hapī, Gretta, with herbalist Fleur du Fresne, established Hapī in December 2015 with the mission of integrating their health practices into the realm of food.
With a strong background in café and catering, Gretta has created a culinary experience that celebrates diversity in eating styles and promotes the philosophy of “food as medicine, medicine as food” — He kai, he rongoā, he rongoā, he kai.
Allied Liquor & Bottle-O Supreme Establishment:
Pacifica Restaurant
Nestled within a distinctive blue bungalow, Pacifica Restaurant offers an intimate and exclusive degustation-only dining experience, with seating for just 30 guests. Known for its innovative approach and exceptional culinary artistry, Pacifica continues to set the standard for excellence in Hawke’s Bay, creating a memorable and personalised dining experience in its cosy setting.
Napier Conferences & Events Outstanding Front of House Team:
Black Barn Bistro
Bidfood Outstanding Streetfood/Casual Dining:
Funbuns
Known for their handcrafted bao buns, Funbuns delivers a relaxed dining experience that has captured the hearts of locals. Competing against strong contenders like Black Betty BBQ, Sai Thai, and Vinci’s Pizza, Funbuns’ dedication to fresh, innovative street food, paired with their signature bao buns, set them apart.
Funbuns also has the region’s best cocktails, with Dave Morris taking out the award for Outstanding Bartender.
Gas Hub Outstanding Chef:
Carlita Campbell – Cellar 495
The Head Chef of Cellar 495, was awarded the Outstanding Chef title, recognising her passion for showcasing the best of Hawke’s Bay through her thoughtful, seasonally driven menu. At Cellar 495, Carlita creates a casual yet refined dining experience where her bistro-inspired menu is designed for sharing and grazing, complementing the wines on offer. Cellar 495 also picked up the award for Outstanding Hawke’s Bay Wine Experience.
OneMusic Outstanding Ambience & Design:
Madame Social
Restaurant Association of NZ Emerging Talent:
Trinity Clark – Piku Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Hawke’s Bay Wine Experience:
Cellar 495
Silver Fern Farms Outstanding Restaurant:
Craggy Range Restaurant
The prestigious Outstanding Restaurant award, went to Craggy Range Restaurant, renowned for its breath taking vineyard and winery setting and its exceptional use of seasonal, local ingredients to create a true Hawke’s Bay dining experience.
