Location: Mangawhai heads

About Us: Brewed As is a vibrant and friendly restaurant that prides itself on serving high-quality coffee and creating a welcoming atmosphere for our community. We’re passionate about great coffee, exceptional customer service, and fostering a positive work environment. If you share our love for coffee and have a knack for making people smile, we’d love to hear from you!

Position: Full-Time Barista

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve a variety of coffee beverages and other drinks with consistency and precision.
• Provide exceptional customer service, including taking orders, answering questions, and handling payments.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area, including the coffee machine and equipment.
• Handle customer feedback and resolve any issues with a positive attitude.

Requirements:

• Previous barista experience required
• Passion for coffee and a strong desire to learn about different coffee varieties and brewing techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• A positive attitude and a genuine interest in creating a great experience for customers.

What We Offer:

• Competitive hourly rate
• Opportunities for career growth and development within the company and growth within the NZ coffee industry.
• Employee discounts on coffee and food items.
• A supportive and friendly team environment.
• Comprehensive training to help you succeed in your role.
• Flexible working hours, always happy to accommodate around your calendar and life events.

How to Apply: If you’re enthusiastic about coffee and ready to join a fantastic team, we’d love to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position to brewed.intentions@gmail.com.

We look forward to meeting you and potentially welcoming you to the Brewed As team!

Brewed As is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Supporting the Hospitality Community with Price Lock-In and Discounts 

As the hospitality industry continues to face mounting pressures and challenges, Gilmours is stepping up to support the sector with the launch of its “Helping Hospitality” campaign. The Restaurant Association are getting behind this initiative which is designed to alleviate some of the financial strains our businesses are facing by offering price stability on essential products and providing targeted discounts.

In recent months, the hospitality industry has been battered by rising operational costs, food price fluctuations, and decreased customer spending. According to the 2024 Hospitality Report by the Restaurant Association of New Zealand, the industry achieved $15.7 billion in sales over the past year, reflecting a growth rate of 5.8 percent. However, this growth has been overshadowed by a 6.4 percent rise in menu pricing and increased operational costs, creating a difficult environment for many businesses. Despite these positive figures, 31 percent of hospitality businesses believe that conditions will deteriorate in the coming year, highlighting the critical need for support. 

In response to these ongoing challenges, Gilmours is launching the “Helping Hospitality” campaign, aimed at providing much-needed relief. Over the next three months, Gilmours will lock in prices on key products to give hospitality businesses greater certainty and stability. These substantial discounts and bundle offers will allow operators to plan ahead with confidence despite the fluctuating economic landscape. 

Beyond cost stability, Gilmours is also focused on driving patronage to local hospitality outlets through the “Spring into Your Local” campaign. This community-centered initiative encourages New Zealanders to visit and share their experiences at their favorite local spots, using social media and a large prize pool to amplify visibility for hospitality businesses. The goal is to help to boost traffic and support for these vital establishments through ongoing exposure and providing a large-scale island-wide marketing campaign at no cost to the operators. 

“At Gilmours, we understand the critical role that the hospitality industry plays in our communities,” said Cindy Chaimowitz, General Manager of Gilmours. “The ‘Helping Hospitality’ and ‘Spring into Your Local’ campaigns are our way of supporting these essential businesses during a time of great need. By providing price stability and encouraging community engagement, we hope to make a meaningful difference in sustaining our hospitality partners.” 

With New Zealand’s hospitality industry employing over 145,000 people and serving as the country’s seventh-largest employer, campaigns like these are more vital than ever. Gilmours remains committed to playing its part in ensuring the success and resilience of this key industry, helping businesses navigate these uncertain times while looking forward to a brighter future. 

Find out More

Read more: Strengthening the Sector: Gilmours Launches Campaign to Boost NZ Hospitality Businesses 

Gilmours would like to extend our sincere thanks to the following suppliers for their generous contributions in support of the B2B campaign, providing essential products and price stability: Sunrice, Groenz, TORK, Castaway, Bonson, Dairyworks, Mainland, Source & Supply, Watties, Simplot, Coca Cola Europacific Partners, Suntory Oceania, Thirsty Camel, Hancocks, and Alpro. 

A special thanks also to the suppliers and partners who have contributed to the B2C campaign prize pool, helping to drive community engagement: Red Bull, Grand Mercure Queenstown, TORK, Bonson, Coca Cola Europacific Partners, DB, Thirsty Camel, Pernod Ricard, Lion, and Singha. 

We know that for many operators going through the steps of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) application process it is important for the process to be completed in a reasonable time-frame to enable you to complete your recruitment process. It can be frustrating if the time taken to process applications is longer than expected.

While there are many variable reasons as to why Job Check and AEWV processing may take time, according to Immigration NZ many Job Check and Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) applications currently being submitted, are missing key information, which is impacting overall application processing times. Submitting applications with complete information means Immigration Officers can spend more time making decisions, as applications with complete information are generally processed faster, compared to when Immigration NZ (INZ) has to request this information.

The Immigration NZ website has new guidance about how to advertise and what to do before applying for a Job Check which should be useful guidance on how to submit complete Job Check applications.

Key things to note:

Job Checks

• Ensure the advertising has closed prior to the Job Check being submitted.
• Make sure to include the pay rate or pay range in the advertisement. It is not sufficient to provide the pay range in the job listing search settings, but not state it in the advertisement.
• Ensure advertising with Work and Income has been completed where required. The listing with Work and Income must be consistent with advertising undertaken generally for a skill level 4 or 5 position. This does not mean it needs to be identical or include the same information – as long as the information does not conflict, this will be consistent with policy requirements.
• Ensure you select the right ANZSCO code at the time the application is submitted.
• Employment agreements must contain all clauses required by employment law. Many are missing a statement that sexual harassment personal grievances must be raised within 12 months. Here is a link providing information on this clause under What an employment agreement must include / Types of pay.
• Employment agreements must also have all clauses required by immigration instructions:
  • provide a minimum 30 hours of work per week
  • describe the maximum hours allowed and the provisions for overtime payments (for salaried employees)
  • provide a pay period not longer than one month
  • not include bonding clauses or unlawful deductions
• Employment agreements must not include a trial provision as defined in section 67A (2) of the Employment Relations Act 2000 (a ’90 day trial’).

Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWVs)

• Job descriptions must be provided with the work visa application.
• Sufficient evidence of work experience must be provided. Evidence must demonstrate that the suitably qualified requirements are met, as well as the minimum skills threshold.
• Evidence of meeting English language requirements must be provided. INZ will not hold applications for English tests to be undertaken.
• Police certificates must be provided (if the worker is staying for more than 2 years).
• If the employment agreement is amended at the Job Check stage, ensure the amended version is submitted with the Work Visa, instead of the previous version.

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Please contact the RA Helpline for clarification or assistance – 0800 737 827.

From 1 October, visa fees across the board will increase. The government reasoning for the increase is that they have been set at an appropriate level to recover the costs of processing a visa and reflect the benefits received by people using immigration services.

As at 13 August 2024 Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has approved 124,974 AEWV applications since the scheme opened, and there are currently 31,689 accredited employers and 84,676 AEWV holders.

Some notable increases include:

• Accredited Employer Work Visa increase from $750 to $1,540
• Job Check Applications increase from $610 to $735
• Permanent Resident Visa increase from $240 to $315
• Specific Purpose Work Visa increase from $735 to $1,355

The government will continue to support subsidized fees for visa applicants from Pacific countries.

Most of the fees paid for by the employer have increased. You can find the new fee structure here.

The Restaurant Association recently made a submission supporting the Companies (Address Information) Amendment Bill.

As part of our submission, many members shared stories of the safety concerns for directors. We also raised these concerns with the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The Minister has indicated that he considers the issues raised by directors regarding their safety and privacy to be important and to be an issue that should be addressed in a comprehensive and future-proof manner.

While there is a Bill currently before parliament, the Minister has indicated he is planning to introduce an additional Bill to amend the Companies Act 1993, which will include reforms to allow for directors’ and shareholders’ addresses to be replaced with an alternative address on the Companies Register. The intention is to introduce a Bill into the House early next year. The proposals will enable the removal of director’s names from being listed publicly irrespective of safety concerns; it will not require a complex application process; and will cover shareholders, unlike the current Members’ Bill before the House.

The Minister has also indicated the intention for the proposed amendments to the Companies Act to include the implementation of a unique identifier for directors, this will improve the integrity of the Companies Register and companies’ regulatory system, whilst allowing residential addresses to be removed from the public view.

Find out more about proposed company law reforms here.

Restaurant Association 2024 Canterbury Hospitality Awards Unveil Top Dining Destinations

The winners have been announced in our Restaurant Association Canterbury Hospitality awards, presented with the support of lead sponsor Trents. These awards celebrate the best of our industry’s dining establishments and individuals, as voted by the hospitality industry.

Wondering who squared up as the best of the best at this year’s Awards?

The iconic fine dining establishment Inati earned two awards, one for its Outstanding Wine and Beverage List and another for Outstanding Emerging Chef, awarded to Quinn Ojala.

Japanese Izakaya bar and restaurant Bar Yoku also took home two awards for Outstanding Front of House Team and Outstanding Restaurant Manager for Laura Holcroft.

Lisa Levy of Inati has been honoured with the Supreme Individual Award recognising her exceptional contributions to the industry. As the head of the Canterbury Awards committee for seven years and currently Canterbury Branch President, Lisa has been an invaluable asset, beloved and respected by everyone who knows her. Her restaurant, Inati, a Christchurch institution, has received numerous accolades, further solidifying her impact on the region’s dining scene. Lisa’s dedication and leadership have made her a cornerstone of Canterbury’s hospitality community, and this award celebrates her enduring influence.

Family-owned biodynamic winery Black Estate won the award for Outstanding Restaurant.

Located in the historic Christchurch Arts Centre, Cellar Door specialising in wine tasting flights and all-day menu took home the accolade for Supreme Establishment.

The region’s best casual dining spots were also recognised, with meat specialist restaurant, food truck and caterer Smoke ‘n’ Barrel taking home the award for Outstanding Casual Dining.

For the region’s best cocktails, Bareno is a must-visit, having been named Outstanding Bar. The title of Outstanding Bartender was awarded to Cory Evans of The Last Word.

The region’s most beloved cafes were celebrated, with Hello Sunday honoured as the Outstanding Café and Eduardo Santos of Sala Café winning the Outstanding Barista award.

The People’s Choice Award, which is determined by public vote, was awarded to Smokey T’s highlighting the popularity and strong connection it has with the local dining public.

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Canterbury truly boasts a plethora of fantastic dining options. From exquisite fine dining establishments to diverse ethnic eateries reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry, and not to forget the great little coffee houses and incredible street food vendors. There’s genuinely something here for everyone to enjoy.

We run these awards not only celebrate our outstanding talent but also to recognise the hard work and dedication that go into delivering exceptional dining experiences. It is crucial that we take the time to pause and celebrate our successes, recognising the hard work and passion that our peers pour into their craft. These awards are a testament to the remarkable talent and innovation that make this region a standout destination, and they provide an opportunity for us to honour the individuals and establishments that elevate the hospitality industry.

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For more information regarding the awards, please visit  https://hospitalityawards.co.nz/canterbury/. Stay connected with key updates and announcements on our Facebook and Instagram pages.

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Canterbury Hospitality Awards 2024 Winners

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Barista – Eduardo Santos, Sala Coffee

Campari Outstanding Bartender – Cory Evans, The Last Word

Anchor Food Professionals Outstanding Chef – Julie Han, Table Bloom

Tevalis Outstanding Front of House – Bar Yoku

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Bar – Bareno

Silver Fern Farms Outstanding Emerging Chef – Quinn Ojala, Inati

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Wine & Beverage List – Inati

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Restaurant Manager – Laura Holcroft, Bar Yoku

Bidfood Outstanding Street Food/Casual Dining – Smoke ‘n’ Barrel

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Outstanding Cafe – Hello Sunday

OneMusic Outstanding Ambience & Design – Scoundrel

Leeston Grocer Outstanding Regional Establishment – Brew Moon

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding New Establishment – Brewda

Lumina Lamb Outstanding Restaurant – Black Estate

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Sustainability – Otahuna Lodge

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Sales Rep – Zac Goy, Aitkens

Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Supplier – Aitkens

Trents Supreme Establishment – Cellar Door

Trents Supreme Individual – Lisa Levy

We are excited to unveil the complete line-up of speakers and topics for Ignite Hospo, set to take place in May 2025 at the Hyundai Marine Events Centre on Auckland’s Tamaki Drive.

Event Highlights

Ignite Hospo is designed to confront industry challenges head-on, providing attendees with innovative solutions and practical tools to drive their businesses forward. The event features a blend of keynote presentations, intimate campfire-style sessions and networking sessions, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for all participants.

Keynote Speaker

Alexandra Carlton – From dégustation to takeout: mastering the path to global recognition in hospitality.

Campfire Sessions

1. Financial Literacy for Workforces: Mastering Open Book Management for Long-Term Financial Viability. Speaker: Sean Foster.

2. Gen Z Unlocked: Strategies to Engage, Train, and Empower the New Generation. Speaker: Benedikt Bouillon.

3. Peak Performance Playbook: Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Teams. Speaker: Dr. Paul Wood.

4. Revenue Reimagined: Discovering and Developing New Income Streams. Speaker: Debbie Humphrey.

Lightning Talks

1. Revolutionising Mental Health in Hospitality: The Barstool Brothers Initiative.  Speaker: Daniel Chin, Raising the Bar Foundation Australia.

2. Navigating Failure: From Closed Kitchens to Bottled Success. Speaker: Luis Cabrera, Besos Margaritas.

3. Dining with the Critics: Navigating the Restaurateur-Reviewer Relationship in the Social Media Era. Speaker: Albert Cho, Tobi/Eat Lit Food.

4. The Food Cost Advantage: Proven Strategies for Maximising Profitability. Speaker: Tony McGeorge, Comensa Group.

5. Unfinished Business – A Culinary Comeback. Speaker: Judith Tabron, First Mates Last Laugh.

Event Format

Ignite Hospo offers a unique blend of structured learning and informal interactions. The event kicks off with keynote presentations that set the tone for the day, followed by campfire sessions and lightning talks that dive deeper into specific topics. Each session is designed to provide attendees with actionable strategies and insights. Additionally, there will be networking opportunities throughout the day, including a grazing platter reception to foster connections.

Current Ticket Availability

Early bird tickets for Ignite Hospo are now sold out, but discounted Ignite Hospo Delegate Passes are now available. The Ignite Hospo Delegate Pass includes a one-day conference programme, breakfast, three-course lunch, drinks, and a grazing platter reception with networking opportunities for just $230.00 + GST.

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Read more on Ignite Hospo:

• Spotlight on keynote speaker Alexandra Carlton
• Speakers announced for Ignite Hospo
• Spark your success at Ignite Hospo

Winners announced in the Restaurant Association Bay Hospitality Awards*

The winners have been announced in the Bay Hospitality awards, presented by the Restaurant Association with the support of Silver Fern Farms. These awards celebrate the best dining establishments and individuals in the region as voted by the hospitality industry.

The People’s Choice Award, which is determined by public vote, was awarded to Jais Aben Bar & Bistro highlighting the establishment’s popularity and strong connection it has with the local dining public.

Italian eatery Alpino, located in Mount Maunganui secured two awards including Outstanding Establishment and Outstanding Chef for Scott Rowand.

Alpino founder Noel Cimadom, was also awarded the Supreme Individual award. Noel knows a thing or two about good hospitality being the brains behind Alpino Cambridge and Mt Maunganui, Bar Centrale, Picnicka, and The Bistro at the Clarence Hotel. Picnicka also picked up the award for Outstanding Ambience.

Restaurant and cook school Somerset Cottage, established in 1986 as a small family-owned restaurant, took home the Supreme Establishment Award. Rick and Anne, who have passionately run the restaurant since its inception, continue to embrace the significant shifts in the New Zealand food and wine scene. Somerset Cottage remains dedicated to sustainability, seasonality, and delicious food, with a strong sense of place and warmth in hospitality. Their daily enjoyment and commitment to these values have made them a standout in the industry.

The Outstanding New Establishment saw fierce competition, with nominees including Blondie, Jais Aben Bar & Bistro and Sailor Galley & Rum Bar but the award went to beachside bar and grill Saltwater.

The region’s best casual dining spots were also recognised, with beer and burger joint Palace Tavern taking home the award for Outstanding Casual Dining.

Those looking for the region’s best cocktails should check out Mexa where the award for Outstanding Bartender went to Marco Rodocanachi.

These awards highlight the incredible talent and diversity within our region’s hospitality scene,” said Marisa Bidois, CEO of the Restaurant Association. “The Bay area, known for its stunning beachside locations and laid-back vibe, is a true tourist mecca, especially during the summer months. It’s wonderful to see our local establishments being recognised for their exceptional offerings, which continue to attract visitors and contribute to the unique charm of our community.

It is crucial that we take the time to pause and celebrate our successes, recognising the hard work and passion that our peers pour into their craft. These awards are a testament to the remarkable talent and innovation that make this region a standout destination, and they provide an opportunity for us to honour the individuals and establishments that elevate the hospitality industry.

For more information regarding the awards, please visit https://hospitalityawards.co.nz/bay and stay connected with key updates and announcements on our Facebook and Instagram pages.

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Bay Hospitality Awards 2024 Winners

Campari Outstanding Bartender – Marco Rodocanachi, MeXa

Tevalis Outstanding Front of House Team – Fife Lane Kitchen & Bar

Bidfood Tauranga Outstanding Chef – Scott Rowand, Alpino

Restaurant Association Outstanding Emerging Talent – Paris Harding, Pearl Kitchen

The Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Casual Dining – Palace Tavern

The Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding Establishment – Alpino

The Restaurant Association of NZ Outstanding New Establishment – Saltwater

OneMusic Outstanding Ambience – Picnicka

Mediaworks People’s Choice Award – Jais Aben Bar & Bistro

Silver Fern Farms Supreme Individual Award – Noel Cimadon

Silver Fern Farms Supreme Establishment Award – Somerset Cottage

The Government has begun consultation on a proposal to redesign vocational education and training (VET) in New Zealand, and we are encouraging industry operators to share your views on the proposals.

Decisions made following this consultation will have a significant impact. They will affect access to training, the growth of a skilled workforce, and the Government’s investment in future skills and workforce training.  

The Government is making three proposals:  

1. Replacing Te Pūkenga with an “Institute of Technology and Polytechnic (ITP)” network, made up of: Stand-alone ITPs – for those ITPs that are financially viable on their own; and  An “ITP Federation” – consisting of the ITPs who are not financially viable on their own, anchored by the Open Polytechnic.

2. Replacing Workforce Development Councils with:

Option A: ITO-like entities – referred to as Industry Training Boards (working name) – responsible for industry standard-setting and arranging industry training; or

Option B: More focused, industry-specific standards-setting bodies – under this option, arranging industry training is done by providers.

3. Making changes to vocational education funding from 2026 to support the new system.  

The full consultation proposal can be found on the Ministry of Education website. 

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How to get involved:  

If you want to hear more about the proposal from the Tertiary Education Commission and Ministry of Education join a hui around the motu at a region near you. Click here to find an updating list of dates, times, and locations.  

Ringa Hora are hosting webinars on the following dates:  

14 August, 1-2pm Register here

21 August, 4.30-5.30pm Note: TEC and MOE will join this session Register here

27 August, 6.30-7.30pm Register here

4 September, 9.30-10.30am Register here 

Details on how to make a submission can be found at the Ministry of Education website.   You can keep up to date with developments during the consultation period at the Ringa Hora web page here.   

The Restaurant Association, Hospitality NZ and Helmet have announced a new partnership, working together to strengthen the industry’s ability to support those in mental distress.

Helmet is a company building technology for global impact on mental health and wellbeing, designed to improve the ability for people to better support those in their lives who are struggling.

Co-founded by Masterchef 2015 winner Tim Read, Helmet’s clinical model empowers supporters by giving them the advice or action they need now to help their loved one.

It then provides a short, engaging programme to ultimately build their capability to provide support over the long term.

The partnership strengthens our respective organisation’s commitment to address and champion mental health and wellbeing within the sector. Hospitality is a rewarding industry to be part of, but it does come with the unique challenges and stresses of long hours and physical work. We are responding to the mental health challenges we know are facing hospitality.

Tim Read and the Helmet team have created a remarkable tool to empower those closest to those struggling with poor mental health, and we are immensely pleased to partner with them ahead of their formal launch. This collaboration is crucial for our industry, as we face growing mental health challenges. It’s more important than ever to support each other, and we are confident that Helmet’s innovative tool will provide much-needed assistance. By empowering individuals to better support their peers, we are fostering a stronger, more compassionate community within hospitality.

Tim Read says it’s a key partnership to reach into the industry he is so passionate about.

“We know there are unique elements of hospitality that put those in the industry under mental health pressures. Helmet’s solution has developed a way to know what someone else needs, at the point they need it.

“Through partnering with Hospitality NZ and Restaurant Association, we are exploring what it means to empower the community that exists, to support one another through the tough times. It gives me immense joy to do this in a sector that I care so much about.”

Helmet’s app will launch next month (August 2024).

This August, make Sorted’s Money Month a great excuse to ‘Pause. Get sorted’ – and have a good time doing it. Community events are being held around the motu to help Kiwis make the most of their money. Through the month of August Westpac are running a special Managing Your Money programme for Money Month to offer their engaging, practical and interactive financial wellbeing programme to help you feel more confident when it comes to making decisions about your money.

Topics are themed around managing your money and finishes the Money Month series off with a special topic – The Housing Market Update with Kelvin Davidson – Chief Property Economist from CoreLogic New Zealand sharing his expertise, insights and views on what’s happening in the current property market.

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For more details or to register, check out the links below:

August webinars – Sorted Month series

Session One: Tuesday, 6 June. 11am-12pm

Pause, get your Mortgage Sorted

When it comes to home loan structures there can be a lot to choose from and it’s up to you to know what suits best. This session looks at the different home loan structures that may be available, things to consider to pay off your debt faster, and some helpful tools and calculators to access for free.

Click here to register.

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Session Two: Tuesday, 13 August. 11am-12pm

Interested in saving and Investing? Pause, get sorted.

This topic gives you practical information on the power of compound interest, savings tips to stick to your goal and an understanding of the basics of investing.

Click here to register.

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Session Three: Tuesday, 20 August. 11am-12pm

Preparing for the future (Kiwisaver/Retirement)

Research shows you might need upwards of $400,000 saved or more depending on the research you look at but the theme is the still the same. You’ll need to have saved a fair amount by the time you get there to enjoy the retirement lifestyle you wish to have. Join us as we focus on how and why to save for retirement, including the benefits and features of Kiwisaver.

Click here to register.

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Session Four: Tuesday, 27 August. 11am-12pm

Are you ready to weather a financial storm? Pause, get sorted

Join us as we focus on things to consider, and how you might be able to best plan for the unexpected. We look at savings, debt, insurance, and a quick step into Power of Attorney’s and wills.

Click here to register

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Session Five: (Special Topic) Thursday, 29 August. 11am-12pm

Pause, get your Housing Market knowledge Sorted.

House prices cooling? Housing correction? Housing speculation? Talk about the housing market is everywhere and lots of information to choose from and it can get a bit too much. Join us as we hear from Kelvin Davidson (Chief Property Economist) at CoreLogic NZ to talk through a market overview with a particular focus on what’s happened in 2024 and expectations for the year ahead. Speculation is rife and some of it conflicting so CoreLogic NZ will provide a data-backed take on the state of the market and more so you can see it for yourself.

Click here to register

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The Managing Your Money team offer these classes as general information only and do not talk about Westpac products and services. If you need personalised advice, email managingyourmoney@westpac.co.nz they’ll find the right person to help.

These workshops will happen online through Microsoft Teams. To access Teams please review these How To’s: Joining a Teams call – DESKTOP and  Joining a Teams call – MOBILE.

The Managing Your Money team offer these classes as general information only and do not talk about Westpac products and services.  If you need personalised advice, email managingyourmoney@westpac.co.nz they’ll find the right person to help.

The Restaurant Association has released our latest Hospitality Industry Report, examining the period ending March 2024. Despite facing significant challenges, the industry achieved sales of $15.7 billion, demonstrating a 5.8% annual growth. However, the past year has been marked by mixed results for many operators. Rising operating costs have resulted in growth that lags behind cost increases.

The year under review began with promise for some businesses and regions, but was later marred by a perfect storm of challenges. The aftermath of extreme weather events in early 2023 severely impacted regions such as Northland and Hawke’s Bay, halting tourism, disrupting food supply chains, and causing price increases. As a result, sales growth from Q2 to Q3 of 2023 was a subdued 2.3 per cent, compared to 7.8 per cent in the same period of 2022.

To offset some of the weather disruption impacts, the “Cooking up a Storm” campaign was launched by the Restaurant Association in early 2023 to help people and businesses impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, successfully raising over $350,000.

Mid-2023 saw operators beginning to feel the impact of cost of living pressures on customer spending, which has continued through 2024.

The combination of extreme weather events, rising food costs, declining customer traffic and spending, increasing wage costs, cost of living pressures, and election year uncertainties significantly affected overall industry productivity and profitability. However, a notable positive aspect was the return of international tourists, who contributed strongly to trade over the Summer 2024 season.

To navigate these challenges, operators focused on lean operations and attracting customers. Food pricing fluctuations led many owners to closely manage food cost changes and adjust menu pricing to mitigate some of these rises.

Regional Performance

Regionally, Northland, Taranaki, and Wellington recorded annual sales declines due to specific local challenges. In contrast, Gisborne showed the highest percentage growth at 20.6 per cent, with Southern Lakes, West Coast South Island, and Kaikōura also experiencing strong sales improvements, partly driven by the return of international tourism.

Recovery and Growth

A significant highlight is the recovery of the catering sector, which saw a remarkable 19.4 per cent growth over the last year after being decimated by COVID-19. Additionally, the industry saw a 7.3 per cent growth in employee numbers, reflecting a positive trend amidst the challenges and marking an easing of extreme staffing shortages for some roles. Notably, Queenstown and the West Coast recorded substantial gains in employee numbers, indicating regional growth and recovery.

The number of hospitality operations nationwide rose to 19,518, reflecting minimal outlet growth of 0.1 per cent from 2022 to 2023.

However, despite the hurdles faced, the industry has shown resilience and adaptability, with positive signs of recovery and growth in various sectors and regions.

Strategic Roadmap

To address these ongoing challenges, the Restaurant Association has developed a strategic roadmap focusing on six key areas:

1. Increased training for New Zealanders: To meet the skills shortage needs within the industry.
2. Agile Immigration Policy: Advocating for immigration policies that are flexible and responsive to the needs of the hospitality sector.
3. Investment in hospitality: Promoting, engaging, and supporting the sector through increased investment in training and development.
4. Regulation review: Conducting a comprehensive review of regulations across the hospitality sector to ensure they are conducive to business growth and sustainability.
5. Campaigns to address perception challenges: Implementing targeted campaigns to improve the public’s perception of the hospitality industry.
6. Digital transformation and future technology: Embracing future technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences and investing in digital tools and innovations to drive the industry forward.

Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois, commented on the report: “The past year has been one of the most challenging periods for our industry, coming on the heels of several difficult years. The cost of living challenges and other pressures are now compounding these issues, threatening the survival of some businesses. Despite these hurdles, our members are showing extraordinary determination. Business owners are keeping their heads down and doing everything they can to survive, in the hope of brighter times ahead.”