NZ Food Innovation Showcase

New Zealand punches far above its weight when it comes to producing food and is a trusted supplier to markets across the globe.

The perception that most produce is exported as primary production instead of value-added processed foods is set to be challenged at the NZ Food Innovation Showcase where visitors from all over the world will be able to see and explore NZ’s food technology, companies and products.

Over three days (16 to 18 October) at Auckland’s newly built Viaduct Events Centre, New Zealand’s food science, processing, packaging, safety and innovation expertise will be on display to industry professionals and the public (at set times).

NZ Food Innovation Showcase organiser, Brent Spillane of XPO Exhibitions says the Showcase will give visitors an insight into the safety and innovation of New Zealand food and create wider awareness of the assistance that is available (including a brand new test production facility due to open in Manukau in September) to help serious food manufacturers with the promotion and commercialisation of New Zealand food products to world markets.

“The event will provide companies with an insight into the soon to be opened NZ Food Innovation Centre in Manukau Auckland, which (the industry) can thank in no small part to Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd. The Manukau Food Innovation Centre has a purpose designed and built food laboratory and test manufacturing plant. Businesses can book time to use the facility to help commercialise great ideas in food innovation. Companies will be able to run trials in the facility, using world-class equipment.

The timing coincides with the Rugby World Cup that will bring an influx of international visitors. Invitations have been sent to key influencers in some of the world’s biggest food importers - and many acceptances have been received, including senior people at Tesco’s. The Showcase has support from across the industry and government, with the Prime Minister’s office indicating that he is likely to give an opening address.

The showcase exhibition is free of charge to anyone who pre-registers for the show online at www.nzfoodinnovationshowcase.co.nz. The NZ Food Innovation Showcase is presented by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd (an Auckland Council organisation) at the newly built Viaduct Events Centre. XPO Exhibitions is the event organiser.

For further information on the Showcase email vanessa@nzfoodinnovationshowcase.co.nz or call 09 976 8378.