In restaurants, boardrooms, vineyards, and markets across the country, women are shaping the future of Aotearoa’s food and drink scene. Since launching in 2023, Women in Food & Drink Aotearoa New Zealand (WIFDNZ) has been on a mission to unite, elevate, and empower these women through connection, education, and celebration.
From day one, WIFDNZ has carved out a strong presence, creating a bold visual identity and growing communities across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. A dynamic website and newsletter ensure members stay connected and inspired. But the true heart of WIFDNZ lies in the events that bring women together – most notably the annual Women’s Day Lunch, held annually since 2023. This flagship celebration honours the top 50 most inspiring and influential women in the sector, alongside the presentation of our signature awards: Emerging Woman, Global Ambassador, Science & Technology, the Supreme Woman Award, and Hall of Fame inductions.
With momentum building, the past year has seen WIFDNZ expand its reach through a series of regional networking events in Wellington, Auckland, Matakana, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Christchurch – and more on the way. These gatherings spark new connections, foster collaboration, and strengthen local food and drink communities.
Now, WIFDNZ is thrilled to unveil its next chapter: the launch of a Digital Workshop Series – crafted in response to what our members told us they wanted to learn. In mid-2024, we surveyed members to pinpoint the skills they were most eager to develop. The results shaped a workshop lineup that’s all about real tools for real impact.
Digital Workshop Series
Topics include:
→ Hosting standout events and securing sponsorship
→ Harnessing AI in your business
→ Building visibility, influence, and personal brand
→ Unlocking the power of social media
→ Crafting compelling storytelling for food and drink
To kick things off, we’re thrilled to launch the series with “How to Build a Successful Event and Get the Sponsorship You Need”, led by event and sponsorship expert Sam Linn, Head of Marketing at XPO Exhibitions. Sam brings deep industry knowledge and a wealth of practical experience. Whether you’re launching a new tasting series, managing a farmers’ market, or hosting a wine masterclass, Sam’s workshop will arm you with actionable insights, creative strategies, and confidence.
Hosted by Sarah Meikle WIFD Advisory Board Member and Director of Food + Drink New Zealand, Sarah’s voice is impressive: she was the woman behind Visa Wellington On a Plate, New Zealand’s most inspirational food-and-drink festival; the event director of Beervana; CEO of the Wellington Culinary Events Trust established to promote Wellington as the premium New Zealand food-and- beverage destination until 2023.
Tuesday 10 June
10:30am – 11:40am (70 minutes)
Online Workshop
NZ$10+GST for members | NZ$25+GST for non-members
This is more than a workshop
It’s your first step toward mastering the art of events in the food and drink world.
DON’T MISS IT!