New Zealand food and butchery sectors celebrate 2026 industry awards

New Zealand’s food and beverage sector is celebrating recent industry achievements through the 2026 New Zealand Food Awards and the 2026 National Butchery Awards.

The New Zealand Food Awards, operated by Massey University, have announced their product award finalists. Led by Head Judge Nikki Middleditch, a panel of 24 experts evaluated entries based on innovation, technical excellence, and sustainability. Finalists include established brands such as Pic’s Peanut Butter, Otis Oat Milk, and Chia Sisters, alongside newcomers like LULLAA® and Ka kā wā Confectionery.

In the butchery sector, Foodstuffs North Island secured multiple honors at the National Butchery Awards. Cody Burbery of PAK’nSAVE Te Awamutu was named the ANZCO Foods Butcher Apprentice of the Year following a rigorous technical competition. Additionally, the team known as ‘The Foodie Fighters’ won the Pure South Master Butcher Teams Challenge, demonstrating high levels of precision and teamwork in meat processing.