Air New Zealand's new 'Taste of Aotearoa' menu uses Forest Gourmet supplied native ingredients

A Taste of Aotearoa is the next evolution of Air New Zealand's popular Aotearoa on a Plate dining concept. Inspired by the rich heritage and diverse bounty of New Zealand, the new menu brings together indigenous flavours and contemporary cuisine.

The new menu is onboard Business Premier cabins now, and is available on all long haul flights out of New Zealand.

Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty says the new onboard food and beverage offering was inspired by manaakitanga – the Māori tradition of hospitality – and is a true celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand's incredible culinary heritage.

“We believe it’s our privilege to showcase the best our country has to offer and share that with the world – and one we take very seriously. Whether it’s on a plate or in a glass, we want to serve up an authentic taste of New Zealand onboard and in our lounges.”

Customers traveling in the airline's premium cabins will have the opportunity to indulge in an unparalleled exploration of New Zealand's exceptional flavours.

“Our country’s unique flora and produce are a treasure trove of flavours and ingredients that have inspired us to create a dining experience that celebrates the special flavours of Aotearoa.”

Some of the delicious A Taste of Aotearoa cuisine found on select premium menus departing from New Zealand include:

• Superfood Salad with horopito dusted New Zealand salmon
• Creamy kawakawa mushrooms on rye toast, sautéed spinach and grilled tomatoes • AhiaTM smoked moki on kawakawa blini
• Grass fed New Zealand lamb rump with horopito rub.

“There's something truly magical about the native flavours of New Zealand – from the peppery spiciness of horopito to the earthy goodness of kawakawa. By infusing our dishes with native ingredients, we pay homage to the traditional uses of these ingredients while creating a modern and memorable dining experience for our customers.”

The menu showcases fresh and locally sourced ingredients, and serves as a chance to introduce visitors to New Zealand to the wonders of our local food producers.

“Working hand in hand with renowned local suppliers, the menu is bursting with New Zealand grown produce. Other menu items showcasing New Zealand include AhiaTM smoked moki sustainably sourced from the people of Ngāti Porou, Ōra King salmon from Marlborough, New Zealand hāpuka, smoked mussels from the Coromandel, cheeses from Oamaru and Hawke's Bay extra virgin olive oil.”

Forest Gourmet has worked behind the scenes with Air New Zealand's culinary specialists for many months to have suitable supply available for the start of these new menus being on board - and are proud to be the suppliers of both the horopito and kawakawa used in these delicious meals.