A New Zealand Food Story With Ben Bayly Puts Ruapehu On The Map

Discover the Ruapehu region’s unique food journey through the highly anticipated Season 4 TV series of A New Zealand Food Story with Ben Bayly. Chef Ben Bayly meets some of Ruapehu’s passionate growers, producers and restauranteurs in the final episode screening on TVNZ 1 on Saturday July 19.

“Food experiences are a big part of what attracts visitors to destinations and showcasing Ruapehu’s offering through the TV series is a fantastic way to share stories of our people and place” says Jo Kennedy, General Manager of Visit Ruapehu.

The Ruapehu region has a rich grower’s history, market gardening, fertile volcanic soil and is home to the carrot capital of NZ – Ohakune.

Across charming mountain towns to riverside settlements, there is a year-round offering of seasonal delights and unique food experiences to taste and enjoy at local cafes, pubs and restaurants serving up fresh bites and beverages.

“Working with Ben and his incredible team has been a boost for our communities and a unique opportunity to invite viewers to come and explore Ruapehu’s emerging food story,” adds Jo.

The chef and TV presenter says he loved his time in the region when filming earlier in the year.

“The vast and majestic Ruapehu region, there is no place in New Zealand that compares to its beauty! I fell in love with it as a kid as Whakapapa is my home ski field,” says Bayly.

“It was amazing to head back to film A New Zealand Food Story and see that Ruapehu has so much more to offer, especially when it comes to food.”

“From growing New Zealand's best carrots grown in rich volcanic soils, to the legendary Johnny Nations eclairs in Ohakune and onto its very own truly world class restaurant –The Chef's Table at Blue Duck Station. I am over the moon that the Ruapehu district is serving up a superb regional food story,” concludes Bayly.

Home to Tongariro National Park and Whanganui National Park, Ruapehu is a top destination for hiking, biking, skiing and snow sports as well as an array of authentic activities in the Central Plateau. Watch A New Zealand Food Story with Ben Bayly Season 4 final episode on Ruapehu on Saturday 19 July at 7pm on TVNZ 1 and on demand on TVNZ+.

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