The New Zealand Specialty Coffee Association (NZSCA) is launching three regional barista competitions prior to the Aotearoa New Zealand Barista Championships, which will take place from 5 to 6 October 2024 at Whirinaki Whare Taonga in Upper Hutt.
The regional dates include 3 March in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, 10 March at C4 Coffee Roasters in Ōtautahi, Christchurch and 17 March at Mojo Fetherston in Te Whanganui a Tara, Wellington.
Similar to the main event, competitors will need to pour four espresso and four milk beverages. All competitors will receive a full debrief on their performances to set them up for the main event.
Participants will have five mins to dial in and 10 mins to present. The NZSCA will provide the machine, grinder, milk, cups, spoons, even the milk jugs and tamper if required.
To reduce barriers to competing, the NZSCA is also introducing a new sponsor category based on green bean sourcing. Many baristas now seek to roast their own coffee and the NZSCA aims to help them have access to the best green coffee.
Part of the winning prize packs at regionals will include vouchers for green beans.
Confirmed competition sponsors include La Marzocco NZ, Victoria Arduino, MILKLAB, MONIN and more.
For more information on the competition, click here. To enquire about green coffee sponsorship, click here.