OTM Winter 2026

OTM Winter 2026Welcome to the winter issue of On The Menu, your seasonal dose of culinary inspiration. Winter is the perfect time to give your hospitality business a ‘health check’. New Zealand has seen an encouraging increase in overseas visitor arrivals, and consumer spend is on the increase compared to 2025. However, this year has also presented some unexpected challenges that have given every industry – and individual – pause for thought, and many of us are looking at ways of managing these challenges in the most effective way possible. A vital aspect of running a successful, prosperous hospitality business is the provision of value-focused menus. Knowing which products work best for your venue, and identifying multi-use ingredients can save you money, reduce waste, and lift your profits. We’ve got plenty of tips and tricks on page 16 that will help you maximise your margins without compromising your menu. At this time of year, guests are looking for venues that offer comfort and relaxation. Creating a warm, inviting environment brings in customers – and keeps them there, meaning they are more likely to order that extra drink, share plate or side. This issue dishes up a cornucopia of inspiration, information and education, creatively garnished with a generous serving of practical advice on how to ensure your venue stays successful. We also catch up with some business owners who are doing it right, from kūmara growing in Northland to fun Auckland waterfront dining from one Let's twhiosrkwtiongteetrhaersaonlidd msuackceess! ofthemostsuccessfulrestaurantnamesinthecountry. Celebrating 10 years with Dimi at Bidfood Hawke’s Bay! In a significant milestone for New Zealand, Bidfood Auckland South proudly delivered over 20 pallets of food and dairy to the Queen Mary 2 on the NZ leg of the cruise ship's 108-night world voyage – her first since Covid reached our shores. Bidfood Greymouth celebrated St Patrick’s Day with a green-themed giveaway! Mike Hutchins (AKA Granddad) was recognised for 20 years with Bidfood Auckland South! Team Bidfresh at the National Accounts Golf Day, raising money for the I AM HOPE Foundation. Bidfresh Auckland sales rep Aaron shows us some specialty green strawberries on their way to a customer. Follow Bidfood NZ and your local branch to keep up with all the latest updates! @bidfoodnewzealand @bidfoodnz PAGE 2 | BIDFOOD – ON THE MENUPage 1Page 3