Huhtamaki New Zealand Barista Championship 2012

The event will see the country’s hottest espresso makers put their knowledge, creativity and performance to the test over three days of cut-throat competition.

Competitors are required not only to produce perfect espresso, but also to create a unique ‘signature drink’ which demonstrates their expertise and originality.

Along with the glory, the National Champion will win a trip to Vienna in June to represent New Zealand at the World Barista Championship. Kiwi competitors have traditionally performed impressively at an international level, but the world title has so far eluded local baristas.

Head Sensory Judge Jessica Godfrey says this year’s competition is tougher and more gruelling than ever, and will determine New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class espresso culture.

“A top barista is part chemist, part gastronomer and part artist. They need an expert palate to rival the best sommeliers, the knowledge to tell a Kenyan bean from a Colombian, and the ability bring out the characteristics of different types of coffee by combining them with the right flavours and choosing the right extraction method.

“New Zealand’s coffee industry has grown to the point that our baristas are now highly sought after all over the world. The Huhtamaki New Zealand Barista Championship demonstrates the level of passion and determination needed to make it to the top of this demanding career,” Ms Godfrey says.

The Huhtamaki New Zealand Barista Championship 2012 will be held at Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre. Heats will take place on Friday, 23 March and Saturday, 24 March from 8:00am to 5:00pm. The Semi-finals and Final will take place on Sunday, 25 March from 8:00am to 5:00pm.