Charity Full Bellies has partnered with the kitchen team at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre to donate soup this winter.
The Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre said it believed that food has the power to connect, comfort, and care. While its chefs are usually found plating up delicious dishes for international delegates and large-scale events, a quieter but equally meaningful culinary effort has been simmering away behind the scenes.
During winter, the kitchen team have been preparing and donating 40 litres of freshly made soup each fortnight to Full Bellies, a local charity committed to feeding vulnerable families and children across Ōtautahi Christchurch. This simple, wholesome meal has become a small but impactful part of the support it offers the local community.
It all began with a conversation. Full Bellies approached the convention centre with one clear request: soup. They explained that soup is warming, nourishing, and easy to serve at schools, especially during the colder months.
In true Te Pae fashion, its chefs worked alongside Full Bellies to adapt the soup recipe, to ensure it met the tick of approval from the hungry kids.
“We have already had the most fantastic feedback, Chef. You and your team should be very proud of your efforts,” said Rochelle from Full Bellies.
One of the biggest schools in the Full Bellies program reported that the children absolutely loved the soup. Another school reported the soup was a great success and particularly special given that 10 of their children had never tried tomato soup before and gave it a big thumbs up.
The soup is made using surplus produce from the Te Pae kitchen that might otherwise go to waste. This not only supports Full Bellies in their important work, but also aligns with Te Pae Christchurch’s sustainability values, reducing waste while still making a meaningful contribution.
The kitchen team at Te Pae Christchurch said this partnership is much more than just food preparation. It’s about connection, responsibility, and living our values in both big and small ways.
“Whether through large international events or quiet community support, we’re proud to serve in ways that truly matter.”
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