Enter the Awards
What we’re looking for
We're not just looking for the best thing on the shelf. We're looking for work that moves the whole sector forward. Excellence, innovation and sustainability that's real.
Who enters
The Awards cover the full food chain. From primary production through to processing, packaging, export and everything in between. The one thing they all have in common? They’re not standing still.
Why it matters
Winning a New Zealand Food Award truly means something. Judging is led by people who know the sector intimately. It’s about being part of a platform that’s actively shaping the future of food, and what Aotearoa can achieve on the global stage.
What you get
A platform to showcase your innovation. Finalists and winners earn the right to display the prestigious Quality Mark, signalling excellence in food safety, compliance and consumer appeal.
Unparalleled access to compliance experts. As part of the entry fee, all finalists receive thorough labelling, marketing and facility compliance checks - backed by an approved labelling consultant and New Zealand Food Safety. This provides both a seal of approval and practical support to help you meet industry standards.
Gain expert insights. Entries are evaluated by over 24 leading experts across scientific, technical, culinary, and commercial fields - offering valuable feedback, emerging trend insights and best practice guidance.
Entering is more than a chance to win - it’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with a national network committed to shaping the future of food in Aotearoa.
Owned and operated by Te Kunenga ki Purehuroa Massey University, the New Zealand Food Awards have championed innovation and excellence in Aotearoa New Zealand’s food and beverage sector for nearly four decades. Whether you are an FMCG brand, an artisan producer, a primary food grower or an ingredient supplier, the Awards offer a platform for businesses of all sizes to be recognised.
The Awards this year culminate in an unmissable celebration at the New Zealand Food Awards Gala Dinner, held at Auckland’s iconic Shed 10 on Tuesday 13 October 2026. Finalists, entrants, partners and industry leaders come together for an evening of connection, conversation and celebration—offering invaluable opportunities to network with peers, forge new relationships, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of food and beverage in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Award Fees
The Product Award category entry fee is set at $155 +GST per variant. A variant refers to a single product with only minor differences, such as flavour or pack size. Additional categories may be added for the same variant at a cost of $55 +GST per category, providing greater opportunity for recognition across relevant categories.
The People Awards are free to enter. The Emerging Talent: Food Science and Technology category is open for nominations, which may be submitted by individuals or peers. All other People Awards are determined through judges’ selection.
The Food Technologist / Developer of the Year is identified through Product Award entries and recognises the individual named as the lead or key contributor to the development of the submitted product.
2026 Key Dates
Entries open: 1 May – 2 June
Emerging Talent Award closes: 25 July
Judging week: 22-26 June
First finalists announcement: 11 August
Second finalists announcement: 1 September
Gala dinner and winners announced: 13 October
Find out more about the robust judging process every product and business goes through.
Maximise your entry and view the full list of categories and criteria for this years awards.
Join us as we celebrate the 2024 finalists and announce the winners.
Stay up to date with award happenings, industry news and read thought-provoking pieces.
Case STudies
