Food

Hood Street Bistro has long been a local favourite for relaxed, generous dining, and now there’s even more reason to visit. With the launch of a brand-new menu, the addition of a full liquor licence, and new evening opening hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 9.30pm, the bistro is entering an exciting new chapter that brings together great food, good company and a well-earned drink to match. The new menu stays true to what Hood Street Bistro does best: comforting, flavour-packed dishes made to be enjoyed at any time of day. Breakfast lovers are spoiled for choice, from indulgent French toast with berry compote and mascarpone to classics done right, such as eggs your way on hot buttered ciabatta. Signature dishes like smashed avocado with beetroot hummus, ricotta and dukkah, or the hearty Kiwi Big Breakfast, strike the perfect balance between modern café fare and traditional favourites. As the day rolls on, the menu opens up into a generous all-day offering. Southern fried chicken features proudly across tacos, burgers and bar snacks, while the Korean fried chicken burger brings a punchy, crowd-pleasing twist. There are lighter options too, including fresh salads like the Thai salad or Garden Glow Bowl, alongside comfort-driven mains such as catch of the day, creamy fettuccine and a classic steak and eggs. Families are well catered for, with a dedicated kids’ menu offering everything from fish and chips to mini hot dogs, making Hood Street Bistro an easy choice for group catch-ups of all ages. Adding to the experience is the bistro’s new liquor licence, meaning guests can now enjoy a cold beer, a glass of wine or a relaxed daytime drink alongside their meal. Whether it’s a casual brunch, a long lunch or an easy early evening bite, the option to enjoy alcohol rounds out the laid-back bistro vibe perfectly. With a refreshed menu, licensed bar and the same welcoming atmosphere locals know and love, Hood Street Bistro continues to be a place where good food and good times come together effortlessly. Contact Hood Street Bistro www.hoodstreetbistro.co.nz  07 834 4365 109 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204 Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Two months ago, Gurpreet Singh took over a charming café in the heart of Hamilton Central, and today, Hood Street Bistro is quickly becoming a favourite stop for locals, tourists, and art lovers alike.  Located on the corner of Hood Street and Victoria Street, the vibrant café is perfectly located within Hamilton’s growing cultural precinct, making it an ideal destination for anyone exploring the city. Just a short stroll from the Waikato Museum Hood Street Bistro has become a popular place for museum visitors looking to unwind after an exhibition. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee before immersing yourself in local history or stopping in for lunch after a cultural experience, the cafe’s inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted menu make the visit complete. “We’re proud to be part of the artistic and creative flow that runs through this part of the city, and we love seeing museum-goers turn into regulars,” says Gurpreet Singh. Directly across the road is the popular art gallery, adding even more richness to the neighbourhood. Many guests drop by after browsing the latest exhibitions, making Hood Street Bistro a natural extension of their creative journey. This close connection to the local arts scene aligns beautifully with the cafe’s mission: to offer high-quality food, coffee, and service with creativity, care, and character. Excitement is also building with the upcoming opening of the Waikato Regional Theatre, which will bring even more energy, foot traffic, and cultural activity to Hamilton Central. Hood Street Bistro is ready to welcome theatre enthusiasts with pre-show drinks, post-show desserts, and a cosy environment to gather, talk, and enjoy the night. Whether you’re here for art, culture, or cuisine, Hood Street Bistro, led by Gurpreet Singh, is your new go-to spot in Hamilton Central, where creativity and community meet over great food and coffee. Contact Hood Street Bistro  07 834 4365 https://www.hoodstreetbistro.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

A Buzzing Week in Tauranga With the 2025 Zespri AIMS Games bringing over 14,000 athletes from 430 schools to Tauranga from 30 August to 5 September (nzaimsgames.co.nz), the atmosphere around the city will be buzzing from dawn till dusk. If you are hungry for delicious food just a stone’s throw from the action, Great Spice Otumoetai, an award winning tandoori restaurant, is the place to be. Close to the Action Located at 4/44 Bureta Road, Otumoetai, Great Spice is right in the heart of the excitement and only a short drive from many AIMS Games venues across Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. Travel times are quick and easy, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without missing the action: ● Waipuna Park (Welcome Bay): around 15 minutes ● Mercury Baypark (Mount Maunganui): around 20 minutes ● Tauranga Domain (central Tauranga): around 5 minutes ● Blake Park (Mount Maunganui): around 10 minutes Flavours to Refuel and Enjoy At Great Spice Otumoetai, the passion for food and service shines through in every dish. From butter chicken and garlic naan to flavour-packed vegetarian and vegan specialties, there is something for everyone. Diners often praise the friendly staff, fresh ingredients, and consistently high-quality dining experience that transports you straight to India. Whether you are looking for a relaxing meal in the restaurant, a quick takeaway, or delivery to nearby areas such as Bethlehem, Matua or the CBD, Great Spice Otumoetai makes it easy to enjoy. The Ideal AIMS Games Stopover So between matches, races, and relays, why not treat your family to authentic, aromatic flavours at Great Spice Otumoetai? Rest, refuel, and celebrate just minutes away from the excitement of the AIMS Games. Pop in, mention the Games, and enjoy the warm hospitality that makes Great Spice a local favourite. Contact Great Spice Otumoetai 075702244 https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/

Tucked away in the heart of Otumoetai, Great Spice isn’t just another Indian restaurant, it’s the result of over 20 years of culinary passion brought to life by owner and chef Khem Aryal. Together with his partner Ganga, Khem has created a welcoming space where authentic Indian flavours meet Kiwi hospitality. We sat down with Khem to learn more about his journey, his philosophy on food, and what keeps customers coming back for more. Q: What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your 20+ years of experience?A: Authenticity and care are everything. Cooking with passion, respecting tradition, and putting the customer first has shaped everything we do. Listening to feedback and working as a team are also key. At Great Spice, we focus on creating an experience where every guest feels welcome and gets a true taste of India. Q: What brought you to New Zealand, and what inspired you to open Great Spice Otumoetai?A: I came to New Zealand for a fresh start, carrying my love for Indian cooking. The warmth of the Kiwi community inspired me to share real Indian flavours. Opening Great Spice Otumoetai with my partner Ganga allowed us to create a space that feels like home, serving food made with care and celebrating our culture. Q: Do you have a signature dish or customer favourite you’d recommend?A: Definitely! For starters, our Honey Cauliflower, Chicken Lollipop, and Chicken Momo Dumplings are always popular. In the mains, the Great Spice Sizzling Dish, Chicken Lababdar, Rara Goat, and Samundri Bahar showcase the best of our kitchen. Paired with our Delhi Butter Naan or Laccha Paratha, they’re a perfect introduction to real Indian cuisine. With his deep respect for tradition, commitment to quality, and genuine love for sharing Indian cuisine, Khem Aryal has turned Great Spice Otumoetai into a beloved dining destination. Whether you’re a long-time fan or visiting for the first time, you’ll find more than just a meal, you’ll experience a slice of culture, care, and culinary excellence. Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Indian curry is a culinary treasure loved worldwide, yet it often suffers from misconceptions that don’t do justice to its rich heritage. At Great Spice Otumoetai, we’re passionate about showcasing authentic Indian flavours and helping people understand that Indian curry is far more diverse and nuanced than many think. Let’s break down some common myths about Indian curry and celebrate what makes it truly special. Myth 1: Indian curry is always unbearably spicyOne of the biggest misunderstandings is that all Indian curries are scorchingly hot. In reality, Indian cuisine uses a wide range of spices that add flavour, aroma, and warmth rather than just heat. Curries like butter chicken, dal makhani, chicken korma, mango chicken, vegetable korma, butter vegetable and paneer are mildest dishes, perfect for those who prefer subtle flavours without the fiery punch. Myth 2: Curry is the only dish India offersCurry is just the beginning. Indian cuisine includes a wide variety of dishes beyond saucy mains: Myth 3: All Indian curries taste the sameIndian cuisine’s diversity means each curry is distinctive. Ingredients, cooking methods, and spice blends vary dramatically across regions. For example, a fiery vindaloo from Goa contrasts with a fragrant and nutty korma from Lucknow. Myth 4: Making Indian curry is too complicated for home cooksWhile some Indian dishes can be elaborate, many curries are surprisingly accessible at home. With the right spices and simple techniques, it’s possible to prepare delicious, wholesome curries without hours in the kitchen. Myth 5: Indian curry is unhealthyIndian curries can be very nutritious, especially when prepared with fresh vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins. Spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander have well-known health benefits. While some dishes use cream or ghee, moderation and balance keep the cuisine wholesome and satisfying. If you want to experience the real magic of Indian curry and see these myths debunked firsthand, Great Spice Otumoetai is the perfect place to start. Celebrate the authentic flavours and rich traditions that make Indian curry one of the world’s great culinary treasures. Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Pairing wine with Indian food might sound tricky, but with the right drop, it’s pure magic. At Great Spice Otumoetai, we’ve handpicked some of the best New Zealand wines to complement the bold, aromatic flavours of our dishes. From crisp Marlborough whites to rich Central Otago reds, there’s something for every palate – and every curry! Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp, Citrus & Classic Jules Taylor Marlborough – Vibrant and lively with hints of passionfruit, lime and fresh herbsPerfect with: Chicken Tikka or Fish Tandoori – balances the chargrilled spice beautifullyRockburn Central Otago – A riper take on Sauvignon Blanc with stone fruit and flinty minerality.Perfect with: Paneer Tikka or Chicken Jalfrezi – ideal for dishes with a smoky or spicy edge. Pinot Gris – Aromatic & Elegant Man O’ War Waiheke Island – Hints of jasmine, pear and citrus – soft and rounded.Perfect with: Chicken Korma or Vegetable Jalfrezi – mellow and balanced.The Ned Marlborough – Crisp with notes of pear and spice.Perfect with: Lamb Saag or Paneer Makhani – pairs beautifully with earthy, creamy curries. Chardonnay – Smooth & Sophisticated The Last Shepard Gisborne – Creamy and citrus-forward with soft oak.Perfect with: Chicken Saagwala or Malai Kofta – creamy meets creamy!Allan Scott Black Label Marlborough – Unfiltered, full-bodied and lush with a hint of oak.Perfect with: Butter Chicken or Tandoori Prawns – bold meets bold! Rosé – Fresh & Fruity Church Rd Gwen Hawke’s Bay Rosé – Dry and elegant, with hints of berry and rose petal.Perfect with: Lamb Seekh Kebabs or Onion Bhaji – vibrant and versatile.Mt Difficulty Roaring Meg Central Otago Rosé – Deliciously dry with wild strawberry notes.Perfect with: Goat Curry or Chicken Jalfrezi – cuts through rich spice. Pinot Noir – Light & Layered Rabbit Ranch Central Otago – Cherry, spice, and silky tannins.Perfect with: Rogan Josh or Lamb Vindaloo – balances spice without overpowering.Carrick Unravelled Central Otago – Organic, earthy and savoury with smooth tannins.Perfect with: Dal Makhani or Lamb Do Pyaza – rich dishes with subtle heat. Syrah – Spicy & Bold Brookfields Back Block Hawke’s Bay – Dark berries, pepper and supple tannins.Perfect with: Beef Madras or Goat Curry – handles bold, meaty flavours effortlessly. Prefer a Cold Beer? We’ve got a great range of local and imported options including Export 33, Steinlager Pure, Heineken, and Kingfisher. Whether you’re after low-carb, full strength, or non-alcoholic, a crisp cold beer is always a classic match for curry night. Ready to sip and savour? Join us at Great Spice Otumoetai – where New Zealand’s finest wines meet the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

Perched on the peaceful shores of Tauranga Harbour, Ōtūmoetai is more than just a scenic suburb—it’s a place steeped in rich heritage and enduring community spirit. At Great Spice Otumoetai, we’re proud to be part of a neighbourhood that has evolved beautifully over time, blending cultural depth with modern living. Māori Beginnings and the Ōtūmoetai PāŌtūmoetai, meaning “the place where the tide stands still as if asleep,” was once home to one of the largest fortified pā in the Western Bay of Plenty. Around 1827, the area supported a population of approximately 2,000 Māori, flourishing thanks to its strategic location, plentiful pipi beds, and fertile soils for growing crops. Colonial Change and GrowthWith the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, life in Ōtūmoetai shifted dramatically. Following the New Zealand Wars, land was confiscated in 1864 and soon after, families like the Snodgrasses settled in the area, bringing new influences and helping shape the growing community. A Hub of HorticultureŌtūmoetai’s rich soil supported extensive citrus orchards in the early 20th century. Aerial images from the 1950s reveal lush rows of fruit trees stretching across what is now a thriving suburb, giving us a glimpse into its fruitful past before housing developments took hold. Urban TransformationIn the latter half of the 20th century, Ōtūmoetai transitioned into the vibrant residential area we know today. The 1959 opening of the Chapel Street causeway bridge greatly improved access, making it easier for families and businesses to settle and grow. Celebrating the Past, Embracing the PresentModern Ōtūmoetai continues to honour its roots, with heritage sites and local stories keeping the past alive. At Great Spice Otumoetai, we celebrate this rich history every day by serving a diverse community with warmth, flavour, and connection. Click here to learn more about the area Get in touch today to book your seat at our table! Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

At Great Spice Otumoetai, we believe great food is about more than just taste—it’s about bringing people together. Located in the heart of Otumoetai, our restaurant has become a go-to spot for locals looking to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere. A Restaurant for the Community Since opening, we’ve been proud to serve the people of Otumoetai, welcoming families, friends, and food lovers alike. Whether it’s a casual midweek dinner, a birthday celebration, or a quick takeaway, we see familiar faces returning time and again. Our regulars aren’t just customers—they’re part of the Great Spice family. We love getting to know our community, from those who stop by for their favourite butter chicken to adventurous diners eager to explore new flavours. Our goal has always been to bring people together through delicious, traditional Indian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Bringing Great Food to Your Door We know that sometimes you just want to enjoy a great meal from the comfort of home. That’s why we offer delivery up to 12 kilometres away, ensuring that even those outside Otumoetai can experience our delicious food without having to leave the house. Whether you’re in Bethlehem, Tauranga CBD, or further afield, we’ll bring the flavours of India straight to your door. Raving Reviews from Our Customers Our customers say it best! Louison Roger recently shared this glowing review: “Great Spice Tauranga offers the best Indian food in town! The flavours are authentic, the curries are rich and delicious, and the service is fantastic. Highly recommend their butter chicken and garlic naan. A must-visit for Indian cuisine lovers in Tauranga!” – Louison Roger Reviews like this remind us why we do what we do—bringing high-quality, flavour-packed Indian cuisine to the people of Tauranga. Your Favourite Indian Restaurant, Close to Home Whether you’re dining in, picking up takeaway, or having a meal delivered, we’re here to serve you with warmth and flavour. Thank you, Otumoetai, for making Great Spice your local favourite—we look forward to welcoming you again soon! Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice

March and April in Tauranga are set to be vibrant months, and Great Spice Otumoetai is here to keep you updated on the best events happening around the city. Whether you’re a music lover, a sports fan, or an art enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to stop in for a meal on your adventures. Tutus on Tour – Royal New Zealand Ballet (March 21–22, 2025) Ballet lovers will be delighted as the Royal New Zealand Ballet brings “Tutus on Tour” to Tauranga. Taking place at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre, this elegant performance features a beautiful selection of classical and contemporary works. Tauranga Street Art Festival (March 21–23, 2025) If you love creativity and vibrant visuals, the Tauranga Street Art Festival is a must-visit. Over three days, talented artists will transform the city’s walls into stunning murals, turning Tauranga into an open-air gallery. Attendees can follow guided art trails, interact with artists, and enjoy live entertainment. This family-friendly event is perfect for exploring the city while experiencing the power of public art. 26th Annual Tauranga Multicultural Festival (March 22, 2025) Celebrate Tauranga’s cultural diversity at this vibrant festival at The Historic Village. Enjoy performances, music, food, art, and crafts from various ethnic communities. This free event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is open to all ages. Wellathlon – The Wellbeing Triathlon (April 5, 2025) For those looking to boost their physical and mental well-being, the Wellathlon is the perfect event. This unique triathlon includes a peaceful walk, an energetic dance session, and a calming yoga flow. Held at Mount Maunganui Community Hall, it’s a great way to stay active while connecting with the community. BLACKCAPS vs. Pakistan – ODI Cricket Match (April 5, 2025) Cricket fans, get ready for an epic showdown as the BLACKCAPS take on Pakistan in a high-stakes One Day International (ODI) match. Taking place at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, this game promises intense action and an electric atmosphere. Grab your tickets, wear your team colors, and enjoy an unforgettable cricket experience. National Jazz Festival Tauranga (April 7–21, 2025) A true highlight of the month, the National Jazz Festival returns with an incredible lineup of local and international artists. For over 60 years, this festival has been a must-see, offering smooth melodies, lively performances, and interactive workshops. Events take place at venues like Baycourt Community & Arts Centre and The Historic Village, making it a great way to experience Tauranga’s vibrant music scene. With such a diverse lineup of events, April in Tauranga is set to be unforgettable. Great Spice Otumoetai is proud to celebrate local events—why not stop by for a delicious meal before or after the action? Contact Great Spice: 07-570 2244 info@greatspicetauranga.co.nz https://www.greatspicetauranga.co.nz/contact https://www.facebook.com/GreatSpice Image Credit: National Jazz Festival 2025