Wellington Serves it up to Melbourne

Wellington, New Zealand’s culinary and cultural capital, is tempting Melbournians at this year’s Good Wine and Food Show (16-18 June) with a new campaign serving up the very finest Kiwi produce, cafes, restaurants, gourmet touring and cooking schools.

Sarah Peacock, Australia Marketing Manager for Positively Wellington Tourism, said the new marketing drive tapped into Melbournians’ sustained interest in gastronomic attractions.

“While many Melbournians are familiar with the food and wines available in Victoria, and elsewhere in Australia, they may not be aware of the world-class, award-winning produce, cafes and restaurants in and around Wellington,” Ms Peacock said.

“Not only does Wellington have an epicurean focus, it is the ideal base for exploring the Martinborough and Marlborough wine regions. As New Zealand’s cultural centre, it offers tourists a full calendar of arts, music, festivals and events, and a sophisticated café and restaurant society — and all against a breathtaking scenic backdrop” Ms Peacock added.

A taste of culinary offerings which Wellington and the surrounding regions boast:

- premier Pinot Noir from Martinborough and Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough

- gourmet walking tours, taking in fine coffee roasters, organic food markets, city-chic delis and award-winning restaurants

- world-class cooking schools such as celebrity chef Ruth Pretty’s tranquil rural hideaway in Te Hora and the Asiana (night) cooking school in Wellington

- acclaimed Aorangi, Gouda and Hipi Iti Kapiti cheeses, and Kikorangi Gold ice-cream (with flavours such as Apple Crumble, and Fig + Ginger) from Lindale Tourist Centre

- for the sweet-tooth visitors the Shoc Chocolate Shop in both Wellington and Greytown, offer interesting combinations such as Lime Chilli and Sea Salt chocolate

- day tours via coach visiting wineries in the region

- Wairarapa Eco Farm, where visitors can learn more about organic farming and sustainable living

- first-class olive oils from Olivio

- boutique breweries and the Brewery Bar (serving Wicked Blondes and Sultry Darks while dispensing interesting facts about brewing)

- Vivo, the Enoteca Cucina (Italian-style wine bar) with more than 50 wines by the glass, and

- a multitude of cafes, fine dining restaurants and nightclubs

The Melbourne Good Food and Wine Show will be staged at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, Corner Flinders and Spencer Streets.

See other recent news regarding: Wellington, Melbourne