Savour New Zealand
"A Masterclass for Wine and Food Lovers of the world"

Michael's enthusiasm for New Zealand's blossoming cuisine and quality food and wine was the principal motivation behind Savour New Zealand, New Zealand's own MasterClass, held in the garden city of Christchurch. As Founding Director of Savour New Zealand, Michael's vision and passion was to find expression in what is now one of the premier food events in the country.
This bi-annual culinary extravaganza provides a rare opportunity for cooks, chefs, food writers and food enthusiasts from New Zealand and all over the world, to attend a weekend of specialist cooking classes, lectures, wine and food tastings and visits to local food producers.

The inaugural Savour New Zealand was held in May 2001, the second in May 2003 and both enjoyed a rapturous reception from guest chefs, food experts and attendees alike.

"…Savour New Zealand MasterClass had me gobsmacked that we could pull off such a professional event…. I personally felt immensely proud to be part of something so well run, in what was a showcase of New Zealand talent and produce."
Julie Biuso [Viva, New Zealand Herald]

"Savour New Zealand is simply brilliant, created by an amazing group of people. They are in my opinion the backbone of the new - New Zealand food business and I look forward to seeing the flesh being built."
Antonio and Priscilla Carluccio

"Well, what an event!… My hat goes off to you for the organisation and hard work getting it all off the ground, and the response from the public and media was quite outstanding."
Philip Johnson [e'cco Bistro, Brisbane]

"I have been raving to everyone here about how great it was."
Leanne Kitchen [Australian Gourmet Traveller]

"[The] inaugural Savour New Zealand MasterClass was as professional and exciting as any I've attended, anywhere in the world."
Clare Ferguson [England]

" …the most enjoyable weekend I have ever had. Please, please let there be another one. New Zealand and Christchurch can feel very proud."
Peter Thornley [Icon Restaurant, Te Papa, Wellington]

"An inspiring weekend…unpretentious and invigorating and full of generosity...!"
Sophie Grigson [England]

"I have presented at masterclasses in Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Shanghai and Madrid, and Savour New Zealand stands head and shoulders above the rest."
Tony Tan

"Savour New Zealand is a wonderful gathering of the leaders of the Food Community. A great event to teach at and inspire towards delicious food and community. It was wonderfully organised and well received - only satisfied people both sides of the stage. Thank you."
Kelsie Kerr, Chez Panisse