Why hosting the New Zealand Food Awards in Palmy makes perfect sense

This article is from our strategic partner, Palmerston North City Council who sponsors the Emerging Talent: Food Science and Technology Award. This partnership is a reflection of the city’s commitment to becoming the Food Innovation Capital.

Each year, the New Zealand Food Awards shine a spotlight on the country’s tastiest ideas and brightest food innovators. This year, the awards are being plated up here in Palmy – the place where food ideas grow faster than sourdough starter.

Palmy: where science meets kai

Palmy has always had food in its DNA. It has long been regarded as an agricultural hub, and today it is equally respected as the country’s food innovation capital. From paddock to plate, lab to lunchbox, we’ve been growing ingredients and ideas.

This is the city that gave the world spreadable butter, whey protein and even cauliflower ice cream. Not bad for place where gumboots and lab coats often cross paths.

We’re also home to Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University, Fonterra’s Global Research & Development Centre, AgResearch, Food HQ and a community of smart cookies pushing the limits of what’s possible in food. In fact, we’ve got more PhD-qualified innovators per capita than anywhere else in Aotearoa. That’s a lot of brains working together to shape the future of food.

A recipe for collaboration

The Manawatū Food Strategy is a regionally collaborative effort by Palmerston North City Council, Manawatū District Council, and the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA). It brings us together with researchers, food producers, and local businesses to cook up a shared vision through:

·       Growing and supporting a thriving food economy

·       Connecting science, business and community to drive collaboration

·       Positioning the region globally as a centre of agrifood excellence

Hosting the Food Awards is a natural extension of this shared vision. They provide an opportunity to showcase the region’s strengths and celebrate the innovators around the country who are shaking up what we grow, make, and eat.

A year-long feast

This year, the region has been buzzing with events as we celebrate our Year of Agrifood 2025. From the Plate of Origin to E-Tipu: the Future Food & Fiber Summit, Palmy’s table has been packed with world-class food and important conversations surrounding the future of food. The Food Awards add the cherry on top of what has already been a delicious year, underlining the region’s role as the food innovation capital.

Palmerston North City Council is proud to sponsor the Emerging Talent in Food, Science and Technology award – reflecting our commitment to support the next generation of innovators.

Not just a venue – the main course

Hosting the New Zealand Food Awards in Palmy highlights our role as the food innovation capital of New Zealand. It’s not just about being a host city – it's about continuing to contribute to a food sector that is sustainable and future focused.