Auckland Ready To Host National Competition Heat

The National Barista Awards brought to you by Robert Harris arrive for their final regional heat in Auckland this coming Monday at SkyCity. Over 30 top coffee makers from the upper North Island will be vying for a place in the National Finals in Auckland in November. The New Zealand champion will compete at the World Barista Championships in Tokyo, Japan in 2007

For the first time, in 2006, each regional contestant will be required to put their espresso skills to the ultimate test by creating four signature beverages during the competition. A signature beverage is an original espresso-based creation. Judging by the standard of creations at the past three regionals there are sure to be some taste bud tantalisers in Auckland!

Within the 15minute competition time each competitor will make four espressos, four cappuccinos and four signature beverages. A panel of seven judges will determine the best two baristas at each regional based on all areas of coffee making expertise.

Now in its sixth year, the National Barista Awards have a proud history of supporting the professional development of New Zealand baristas. The National Barista Awards are the only world-recognised competition in New Zealand and have seen each of our representative’s place within the top ten globally since day one.

Robert Harris has been the major sponsor of the National Barista Awards since they began in 2000. Their consistent support of the Awards demonstrates their on-going commitment to supporting the New Zealand coffee industry. Nic McClean, New Zealand Food Service Manager at Cerebos Gregg’s, says “Robert Harris simply wants to ensure that this professional development of baristas is nurtured and New Zealanders continue to enjoy great coffee!”
The competition can only continue with the ongoing support of the key sponsors. Anchor has been loyal sponsor of the National Barista Awards since 2000 showing their commitment to the industry and acknowledging that the majority of New Zealand coffee drinkers prefer their daily fix with milk!

There are four regional heats in 2006; Christchurch was held on June 26th, Wellington was on July 10th, Napier on July 24th and Auckland (August 14). The top two (and possibly a wildcard entry at the judges’ discretion) go on to compete at the National Finals staged at the Wildbean Café Coffee Festival and Awards in Auckland on November 11th.

The Auckland competition starts at 11am at SkyCity. The Awards are open to the public free-of-charge and promise to bring you a new level of appreciation for the baristas fuelling your morning caffeine fix!

For further information visit www.nationalbaristaawards.co.nz

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