Peter Gordon named as Kea WCNZ Supreme Award winner

The black-tie awards saw Peter celebrated for his outstanding and ongoing philanthropic efforts – including the creation of annual culinary events, held here and in the UK, which have raised more than NZD$16million to support Leukaemia research.

Internationally recognised chef and restaurateur Peter Gordon has been named as the 2019 Kea World Class New Zealand (WCNZ) Supreme Award winner at a gala ceremony held last night at Auckland's SKYCITY Convention Centre.

The black-tie awards saw Peter celebrated for his outstanding and ongoing philanthropic efforts – including the creation of annual culinary events, held here and in the UK, which have raised more than NZD$16million to support Leukaemia research.

Often credited as the pioneer of fusion food, Peter's unique approach to cuisine has seen him establish a number of critically acclaimed restaurants in New Zealand and London - including Bellota, The Sugar Club, The Providores & Tapa Room.

The author of eight highly-successful cookbooks, Peter was awarded an ONZM in 2009 for his services to the food industry – and last year, designed and prepared a Gala Dinner for 900 people, held in Auckland to celebrate President Obama's inaugural visit.

Kea Global CEO Craig Donaldson says, "Peter embodies what it means to be a World Class New Zealander in every sense. Not only is he an incredibly talented chef, but his ongoing commitment to his philanthropic endeavours shows an immense generosity of spirit. Without a shadow of a doubt, he has made a significant difference to many both here and overseas.

"Peter has pushed the boundaries of cuisine, creating spectacular dishes that showcase our country's finest produce and New Zealand's diverse culinary landscape. We are so excited to acknowledge him as this year's Supreme winner," concludes Donaldson.

Peter Gordon says, "I am hugely honoured to have been chosen as the Supreme winner this year. It was my paternal grandmother, Molly, that instilled in me a sense of community and charity, without which society collapses. She also taught me how to bake, working alongside her as she made another tray of caramel shortbread. Promoting Aotearoa New Zealand on the world stage has been relatively easy to be fair. We are a positive forward-facing country, full of dynamic welcoming people surrounded by incredible nature and world-class products from our kai moana through to our wines. New Zealand makes it easy to look good."

Attendees at the Awards ceremony were also treated to a menu specially designed by the Supreme Award winner himself.

In addition to Peter, last night's ceremony also named its Friend of New Zealand – US private equity investor and business leader Ric Kayne. Kayne was celebrated for his significant contribution to New Zealand's people, economy and tourism sector - via his work to establish Aotearoa as a world-class golfing destination, and ongoing partnerships with Northland iwi.

Other World Class New Zealand winners acknowledged last night included Allbirds' entrepreneur Tim Brown; business leader Rachel Taulelei; scientist and entrepreneur Doctor Elizabeth Iorns; technology innovator and entrepreneur Fady Mishriki; globally recognised HR professional Kirsten Nevill-Manning; and professor and neuroscientist Christopher Shaw.

Each World Class New Zealand Award winner received a Tall Poppy statuette, designed by Weta Workshop co-founder and 2009 Supreme Award winner Sir Richard Taylor.

Established in 2003, the WCNZ Awards provide a platform that recognises inspirational, world Kiwis and friends who are making outstanding contributions to New Zealand's international reputation.