A Southland pie has been nationally ranked at last night's (30 Jul) 2024 Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Awards.

LISTEN to our interview with Murray Gray

Murray Gray, from Mataura Mutton Pies, received a highly commended (4th placing) in the Gourmet Meat section for his Mutton Mince and Breadcrumbs pie.

Each year around 600 pies are entered into what has become one of New Zealand’s most popular and prestigious food competitions.

Experienced baking industry experts are joined by a celebrity judge to blind judge pies in 11 categories.

Three Otago pie makers also featured prominently in the competition.

Jason Danielson from Kaipai Bakery in Wanaka won the Gold Award for his Commerical/Wholesale pie, while Kate Smith from Roxburgh's Jimmy's Pies got a 10th placing in the same section.

Kaipai Bakery also received a 6th placing for their Mince and Gravy pie.

North Canterbury baker, Arlyn Thompson from Rangiora Bakery claimed the Bakels NZ Supreme Pie Award with her Gourmet Meat entry - a Slow Cooked Sumatra Style Beef pie.

It is the first time a South Islander had taken out the supreme award and only the second time the award has gone to a female baker.

Also be sure to check out our local pie reviews - Tommy's Tummy Pie Reviews are published regularly in the News section of the Southland App.