Hospitality businesses across the country are invited to join Al Brown and Restaurant Association to host New Zealand's largest dinner party, in support of those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.
The "Cooking Up a Storm" event led by the famous Kiwi chef, and supported by Restaurant Association, will be hosted in establishments nationwide on March 20.
Restaurants that are interested in participating will be required to create a two course menu for a set price of 69 dollars. 46 dollars from every sale will be going directly to support the Mayoral Relief Funds. A portion of the event's proceeds will also go directly to hospitality businesses that have been impacted by the recent extreme weather events.
"We are attempting to create the country's biggest every dinner party with the whole hospitality community coming together to do good and help those in need," explained Al Brown.
Centering simplicity in his vision, Brown plans to focus on serving up comfort dishes and classic favourites.
"It's about comfort food and bringing like-minded folk around a table for the evening. Essentially, we're emulating what is happening in the affected regions, where sitting around a table and having kai is bringing people together to support, listen and be there for each other," said the chef.
Al Brown
"I know times are bloody tough for many in our beloved hospitality industry, but we still need to think about others and the role we play in our community. Let's show that as an industry, we can help make a difference and give back in a meaningful way."
Recently, a survey conducted by Restaurant Association found that 92 percent of respondents were impacted in some way by the recent weather events.
65 percent reported that they were forced to close their doors, while 25 percent have remained closed.
69 percent said that they have experienced a significant downturn in trade, particularly those from severely affected areas.
29 percent of respondents experienced material damage to their business from the recent floods and cyclone.
"It's clear that the recent weather has caused widespread issues across the country and our businesses. But hosting people is what we do best, so we're looking forward to welcoming people into our establishments again, whilst also helping to support those who have been impacted," concluded Marisa Bidois, CEO of Restaurant Association.
For restaurants that are interested in participating, register here.
