The timetable and a new Chief Judge for this year’s NZ Ice Cream & Gelato Awards have been revealed .
If you’re planning to enter, please diarise the ‘Awards Entry’ Webinar on Monday 10 June at 12.30 pm. To register email Karen on info@nzicecream.org.nz.
Each year ice cream and gelato makers are encouraged to try something new and innovative with a special ‘Best of’ category – and in 2024 this is ‘Best of New Zealand Produce’.
Here are some more key dates to diarise:
Entries Open: Tuesday 4 June 2024
Awards Entry Webinar: Monday 10 June 12.30 to 1.15 pm
Entries Close: Friday 5 July 2024
Entries to Judging Venue: Wednesday 17 & Thursday 18 July 2024
Judging: Saturday 20 July 2024
Dr Steven Young NZ Ice Cream Technical Short Course: Wednesday 28 & Thursday 29 August 2024
Awards Event: Thursday 29 August 2024, Akarana Yacht Club, Tamaki Drive, Auckland
New Chief Judge
This year, the 20-strong panel of judges will be led by new Chief Judge, Geoff Scott.
Geoff brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been a member of the judging panel for many years. He is also an experienced food judge, having held Head Judging roles for the Ora King Salmon Awards and the Silver Fern Farms Restaurant Awards.
Geoff trained under the famous Roux brothers, Alain Ducasse in Monaco, Michel Rostang in Paris and in restaurants across Europe, before returning to New Zealand in 2005 and taking ownership of the highly successful restaurant Vinnies in Herne Bay, Auckland. These days Geoff is lecturing at AUT, consulting, working on charity events and judging food and chef competitions across the country.
Geoff Scott says; “In my 40 years in the hospitality profession, one of my driving interests has been working with farmers, suppliers, growers and producers who share my passion and commitment to quality, sustainability and stewardship of our land in New Zealand and the world. As a chef, I am proud to create and work with great produce showcasing the best of Aotearoa. I particularly enjoyed working on the pastry section in Michelin star kitchens. Of course, anything frozen was devoured on the spot! Judging is an honour and privilege, so being involved with this year’s NZ Ice Cream & Gelato Awards is very exciting.”
