Inflight treats: Air New Zealand calls for taste testers in the Great Kiwi Snack Off

by James Wilkinson

Air New Zealand is looking for Kiwis to help narrow down the most ‘snack-tacular’ treats to serve its customers onboard as part of the airline’s ‘Great Kiwi Snack Off’.

Earlier this year, Air New Zealand announced a nationwide search for the most flavorful Kiwi snacks to introduce onboard, prompting hundreds of passionate suppliers from around the country to bring their creations to the table.

Now the airline is seeking five foodies to put their tastebuds to the test and help the airline make its final decision on what snacks will be served onboard.

Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty says more than 400 suppliers expressed their interest, putting forward everything from nuts to nachos.

“We’ve had some incredible suppliers reach out with snacks of all shapes and flavours and they’ve got some great stories to tell. Whether they’re on a mission to highlight the best of locally sourced produce, or want to help a deserving charity, the calibre of suppliers has been exceptional. We’ve managed to whittle the list down to 30 suppliers still in the running, but we need a hand to make the final call.

“What’s become really clear through this process is Kiwis are passionate about snacks, so why not give a few of the country’s most enthusiastic foodies a chance to be snacksperts and have their say on what we serve onboard.”

Air New Zealand’s panel of snackers has already narrowed down the list to ensure suppliers meet key requirements, for example, options that can be served without heating and are easy and light to transport.

“We’ve got dozens of snacks that highlight a variety of classic Kiwi flavours including tangy feijoas and kiwifruit for our snacksperts to try. From cookies and bliss balls to chicken chips and crunchy cheese, it won’t be an easy task for them to narrow the snacks down.”

There’s no age limit for those who want to put their name forward for this meaty challenge, with kids and adults alike eligible to enter to become snacksperts.

Those interested in becoming one of five snacksperts can follow this link to apply: https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/snacksperts

They’ll be given the chance to taste test the snacks in Auckland and give their verdict, before the final selection is announced in the coming weeks.

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