Member testimonials

Hear from our members about what they value most.

Running a restaurant or café comes with its challenges—from navigating complex regulations to managing day-to-day operations. That’s why having someone in your corner makes all the difference.

These member testimonials from some of our members highlights what Restaurant Association membership means to them – from the peace of mind that comes with expert support on tap, to the practical savings and resources that help their businesses thrive.

“Joining the Restaurant Association gave us access to advice, training and a community that actually understands the challenges of running a café. Before joining, we were trying to navigate the ups and downs of hospitality on our own, especially during COVID when everything was uncertain. They’ve helped us with compliance, HR, and just keeping up with changes. The RA are the people who help hospo people stay in business; they really care. It’s reassuring to know there’s always someone on your side.”

Gareth & Anna Wilson

Brewed As, Mangawhai

“Owning and running a restaurant is full-on, and sometimes you just need people who truly understand what you’re dealing with. The Restaurant Association has been that for us — a community of like-minded business owners who share ideas, challenges, and support. Their guidance through some tough employment situations has been invaluable and has given me real peace of mind.

The team are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested in helping our industry thrive. It’s reassuring to know that whenever an issue comes up, there’s someone I can reach out to who not only gets it but has the expertise to help. Being part of the RA means you’re never running your business alone.”

Kat Dippie

Fife Lane, Mt Maunganui

“Running a restaurant can feel like juggling a hundred things at once: staffing, compliance, costs, you name it. A fellow peer suggested I join the Restaurant Association, and honestly, it’s been one of the best moves. The Association is a real tool guide for hospo owners; they just get it. The support and guidance they offer gives me real peace of mind. From helpful seminars to having someone to call when I’m unsure about compliance, it’s like having a safety net for my business.”

Shafeeq Ismail

Odeon & Strawberry Fare, Christchurch

“In hospitality, there’s always something changing — new rules, new policies, new challenges. Between running the restaurant and looking after our team, it’s impossible to stay on top of everything. That’s where the Restaurant Association steps in. They’ve been our go-to for clear, practical advice when things get complicated — from employment agreements to immigration and compliance. On top of that, the cost savings and discounts we access through membership have been a real bonus, helping us reinvest back into the business. Knowing there’s a team of experts who’ve got our back gives me real peace of mind. They’ve helped us steer through so many changes since 2020, and I honestly can’t imagine doing this without their support.”

Chand & Sid Sahrawat

The French Cafe, Cassia, Auckland

“When I first started out, I had no idea how much I didn’t know. The legal and compliance side of running a business can be overwhelming, especially when you’re new to the industry. Having the Restaurant Association at the other end of the phone made all the difference – real people, practical advice, and genuine support when I felt out of my depth. The member discounts have been a huge help too; I still remember the merchant banking deal saving us more than the cost of our annual membership!

The RA’s advocacy for our industry at a national level is incredible. They really do punch above their weight to make sure hospitality businesses like ours are heard. Honestly, you’d be crazy not to join. Hospo is hard enough — it’s just nice to know someone has your back.”

Gretta Carney

Hapi, Napier

“As our business grew, so did the complexity, and that’s where the Restaurant Association became invaluable. Knowing we’re operating with best practice gives us confidence and peace of mind, it means we can focus on the fun parts that made us want to open a hospitality business in the first place. The RA not only keeps us informed and compliant, but they also make sure our industry has a real voice at the table. Joining them is honestly one of the best business decisions we’ve made.”

Lisa Quarrie

Hayes Common, Hamilton

“When we first opened Little Savanna, we were completely new to hospitality and needed guidance on everything. The Restaurant Association has been there for us every step of the way. Their team gives clear, step-by-step advice whenever we have a question or challenge, and their knowledge of employment law has been a real lifesaver.

What I value most is how much they genuinely care — they don’t just give information; they take the time to understand our situation and guide us through it. I honestly couldn’t have managed without them. The Restaurant Association is just fantastic and an absolute must for anyone in hospitality.”

Margie Holmes

Little Savanna, Palmerston North

“The Restaurant Association has been an essential partner throughout my 14 years in hospitality. They’ve helped us put clear procedures in place and access training that strengthened our team and operations.

The RA isn’t just about advice; it’s about confidence. Knowing there’s expert support at the end of the phone has made all the difference, and I truly believe the RA is a must-have for anyone serious about succeeding in the hospo world.”

Michele Passarello

Passo Pasta and Pizza, Paraparaumu

“My little pasta shop is all about handmade, artisanal food, but dealing with staff and compliance issues on my own was stressful. I joined the Restaurant Association looking for some help, and they’ve been incredible. They’re honestly so helpful; every hospo owner should join. Having their support meant I could sort out staff issues quickly and focus back on the food I love making. It’s given me confidence and peace of mind knowing someone has my back.”

Mirella Kostandin

Mirella Pasta, Auckland

“I joined the Restaurant Association for some extra support. From compliance help to saving costs and connecting with other owners, it’s made a huge difference. Since then, I’ve felt like I’ve got someone in my corner; they always have my back no matter what comes up. Based on my experience, every hospo owner should be part of the RA.”

Pradeep Thapa

Robert Harris, Palmerston North

“I can honestly say the RA has guided and supported countless Columbus Coffee owners through some really tough situations, helping them mitigate risk and find practical solutions to challenging matters. I’d hate to do my job without the RA. We heavily endorse RA membership because their support is simply outstanding, and all our stores benefit enormously from it. The Restaurant Association is knowledgeable, supportive, and an essential partner for any hospitality business. With the RA in your corner, you’ll always have the right support to manage whatever comes your way.”

Tracey Bates

Cafe Brands / Columbus Coffee head office

“I’ve worked with the Restaurant Association for over a decade, and in that time the team have become more like trusted colleagues than external advisors. The legal Helpline team are exceptional — approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely easy to work with. Their advice has given me the confidence to handle complex staffing situations, maintain fair workplace practices, and stay compliant with ease. I can honestly say the RA is worth its weight in gold — their guidance, resources, and support have been invaluable to our business.”

Jazz Steiner Nooyen

Tank Juice

These member testimonials show the many ways our members benefit from RA support. Discover these venues and other member restaurants and cafés on www.dinefind.co.nz.


Explore some of our key Restaurant Association support services here:

Not a member yet? To access the Restaurant Association Helpline support, Join Now