A new initiative to support and boost Southland’s hospitality and accommodation sector and elevate Southland’s reputation as a food and beverage destination will run from 1 April to 16 May 2021.

Already, 45 Southland establishments have registered for Savour the South – Eat Drink Play & Stay.

The event will showcase Southland’s tastiest dishes and beverages at locations all over Southland, from pie shops and pub-grub through to fine dining, Hospitality NZ Southland branch president Graham Hawkes said.

Advertisement: Creation Signs

 Advertise on the Southland App

The event has been developed by Hospitality New Zealand in collaboration with Great South, Southland’s Regional Development Agency.

Graham Hawkes is a long-time chef and said it was time to share the Southland food experience with the rest of New Zealand.

“I am unashamedly parochial. Southland produces among the finest, freshest, most flavoursome, and greatest varieties of food in the world.”

Lamb Shank is a Southland staple. PHOTO: Supplied

The hospitality sector was at the heart of our communities and local economy, so events like this to support the sector were vital, he said.

“Food tourism plays a key role in the local and visitor experience and Savour the South will highlight unique and well-loved dishes that can be enjoyed in Southland. 

Advertisement: Fiordland Escapes

Advertise on the Southland App

With the borders firmly closed for the foreseeable future, the event’s focus would be on attracting domestic visitors, he said.

It was too soon to day today how many online bookings had been made across the establishments, but he was encouraged by the number of registrations.

"It is Easter, so we have not really started yet. Most of advertising so far has been outside Southland . . . It is good for our first time," he said.

Asian Lamb Belly, prepared with love. PHOTO: Supplied

The event would also include Southland accommodation operators, who would have the ability to provide discounts to customers who booked directly with them.

Great South Tourism and Events general manager Bobbi Brown said events were a focus for Great South in driving visitation to the region.

“What better way to entice visitors than with the likes of our delicious kaimoana.” 

Final Event: The Pure South Famous Chefs Lunch to be held at Hanson Hall on Sunday the 16th May.

More Information: https://www.facebook.com/savourthesouth.nz