Calling all cooks

Pip Beagley and Joanne Smart, from Love Food Hate Waste, held a similar event on the Hibiscus Coast. Pip is one of the organisers of the Wellsford event.

A Masterchef-inspired cooking challenge will be held in Wellsford on Thursday, November 2.

The event, called The Great Big Rescued Food Cook Off, is a collaboration between Mahurangi Wastebusters, Love Food Hate Waste NZ and EcoMatters. It is designed to show how good food that might otherwise go to landfill can be used to create inspired and delicious dishes.

The organisers are inviting teams of five or six friends, family or colleagues to enter. All they will need on the night will be their own picnic set (cutlery, cups, plates) and their favourite tipple, and the rest will be supplied.

“All the teams will strive to cook the most delicious meals using a mystery box of rescued food,” Jerusha Tucker, from Mahurangi Wastebusters, says.

“There will be spot prizes throughout the evening and the winning team will be rewarded with a hamper filled with waste-free goodies.

“As well, we hope contestants will learn important skills, not just to help with the household budget, but also to help protect our environment.”

Local food stores and supermarkets are encouraged to contribute old stock or cans off their shelves, and all food donations would be gratefully received.

“We would also love any waste-free prizes and vouchers from local businesses to go towards our hampers or spot prizes, and we will promote these businesses as sponsors.”

The event will be held at the Wellsford District Community Centre. Doors will open at 6.15pm and cooking will start at 6.30pm sharp.

Although admission is free, there will be a donation box for local charity Northern Helping Hands.
Register a team at: https://events.humanitix.com/the-great-big-rescued-food-cook-off-orewa-friday-10-november

More info: Email Jerusha at jerusha.eden@gmail.com