Air New Zealand refreshes Business Premier catering experience
"A Taste of Aotearoa" including grass fed lamb rub, creamy kawakawa mushrooms, mixed tasting plate and superfood salad
Air New Zealand has introduced the latest menu in its Aotearoa on a Plate dining concept.
A Taste of Aotearoa was inspired by manaakitanga — the Māori tradition of hospitality, and is onboard Business Premier cabins now, and is available on all long-haul flights out of New Zealand.
"We believe it's our privilege to showcase the best our country has to offer and share that with the world — and one we take very seriously. Whether it's on a plate or in a glass, we want to serve up an authentic taste of New Zealand onboard and in our lounges," commented Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty in a recent press release.
"Our country's unique flora and produce are a treasure trove of flavours and ingredients that have inspired us to create a dining experience that celebrates the special flavours of Aotearoa," Geraghty added.
The menu showcases fresh and locally sourced ingredients and serves as a chance to introduce visitors to New Zealand to the wonders of the country’s local food producers.
"Working hand in hand with renowned local suppliers, the menu is bursting with New Zealand grown produce. Other menu items showcasing New Zealand include Ahia™ smoked moki sourced from the people of Ngāti Porou, Ōra King salmon from Marlborough, New Zealand hāpuka, smoked mussels from the Coromandel, cheeses from Oamaru and Hawke's Bay extra virgin olive oil," said Geraghty.
In another development, the airline is refreshing its cocktail offerings for Business Premier passengers.
The first seasonal signature drink, from New Zealand drinks creator East Imperial, will be introduced on Air New Zealand's New York and Chicago routes from late August through to October.
The first new seasonal signature cocktail from East Imperial
The first drinks are gin-based cocktails but can also be served as an alcohol-free option.
Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty says the seasonal cocktails will add a splash of excitement to cocktail hour and the airline's inflight experience.
The airline will be seeking feedback from customers on the new cocktails and looking to introduce other signature cocktails on a seasonal rotation.