How do dietaries work?

Add requirements at checkout (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal). We’ll confirm with the caterer.

Can we sit together as a group?

Yes — tables of 10 guarantee group seating. For smaller parties, we’ll seat you with industry peers where possible.

Parking and transport?

On-site/nearby parking is available at the Arena. Taxis and rideshare operate in Palmerston North.

Food & beverage brands, producers, retailers, exporters, suppliers, R&D/innovation, operations/logistics leaders, investors, media and partners.

How do I choose my tour?

Select your preferred tour when purchasing Friday tickets (subject to availability). Tour capacities are limited and may sell out.

What should I wear/bring?

Closed-toe footwear is required. Some tours involve walking or outdoor environments — bring a jacket and be prepared for weather. PPE is supplied where required.

Can I drive myself to a tour site?

Please use the provided coaches so the programme stays on schedule and host site protocols are followed.

Do I need to bring PPE?

No — where PPE is needed, it’s provided by the host.

Thursday, 16 October

New Zealand Food Awards Gala Dinner 2025

By New Zealand Food Awards

Celebrate Aotearoa New Zealand’s best in food & beverage — recognition, connection, and a night to remember.

Date and time

Location

Central Energy Trust Arena

61 Pascal Street Palmerston North, Manawatu 4410 New Zealand

Good to know

Highlights

4 hours 30 minutes
In person

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

Food & Drink • Food

The ultimate celebration of innovation and excellence in New Zealand food and beverage!

For more than 30 years the New Zealand Food Awards have given food and beverage producers of our small nation the opportunity to showcase just how inspiring they can be. With themes of innovation, sustainability and excellence, and strong ties to Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, the NZ Food Awards Quality Mark remains the pinnacle of excellence in Aotearoa New Zealand’s food and beverage industry.

Dress code: Black tie

Keep the conversations going the following day with our Networking Breakfast & Innovation Tours.

When: Friday 17 Oct 2025, 8:45am - ~ 12:00pm; breakfast 8:45 - 10:00am, tours leave at 10:00am and return to the Refectory.

Where: The Refectory, Refectory Drive, Massey Unversity

Tour options (limited seats):

Massey University's FoodPilot, Nutrition Lab & Human Nutrition Research Unit, Food Experience and Sensory Testing (Feast) lab — Food science, product innovation & consumer insight.

Whenua Haumanu project — New Zealand's most comprehensive programme on regenerative agriculture: a partnership between Massey University and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) through the Sustainabl Food and Fibres Fund.

Te Utanganui Central New Zealand Distribution Hub — The freight, logistics, and distribution hub that cements the role of Palmerston North and Manawatū as an integral part of New Zealand’s national and international trade networks.

Fonterra and Plant & Food Research — World-class dairy & plant science R&D.

Ticket options include individual, tables of 10, and full event packages (gala dinner plus networking breakfast and tours - individual and tables).

Preferred accommodation providers in Palmerston North (special NZ Food Awards rates):

The Quest $260 One-Bedroom Apartment

Ph (06) 357 7676 or email reservations@questpalmerstonnorth.co.nz and specify that you are travelling for the NZ Food Awards.

Copthorne Hotel $185 Single, $195 Double

Enter the group code "NZFOOD25" to access the offer.

More details on our website

Organised by

New Zealand Food Awards

Followers

--

Events

--

Hosting

--