NEW ZEALAND
HOSPITALITY PULSE
This hospitality news blog offers deep insight & research data, keeping you up to date with all things Kiwi hospitality. Chief Editor, Joshua Thomas is a hospitality veteran that stays neck deep in the hotel & hospitality sector in New Zealand. You get a front-row seat to the latest news, reports, trends, and insights shaping hotels, restaurants, cafes and all things hospitality & tourism.
Brewing Brilliance: Our Rich Legacy and Future of New Zealand Breweries
Discover the storied journey of New Zealand breweries—from Captain Cook’s pioneering brews to today’s dynamic craft beer revolution and post-COVID recovery
The Evolution of Hospitality Ratings in New Zealand
Discover the inspiring evolution of New Zealand’s hospitality—from the era of covert inspections to today’s rigorous Qualmark accreditation and influential Cuisine Magazine hat ratings. This deep dive reveals how tradition meets innovation and sustainability, shaping an industry that continuously raises the bar for quality and guest experience.
January 2025 Hospo Roundup: Big Wins, New Rules & Cat Cafes
Feeling swamped by summer’s frantic pace in your café or hotel? Take five and dig into January 2025’s big-ticket hospo news—from new visa rules and B&B trends to Auckland’s cat-café obsession. We’ll walk you through the juicy details, minus the fluff—so you can get back to delighting customers and staying ahead of the competition
6 Kiwi Celebrity Chefs Making Waves in 2025
Discover six Kiwi legends who’ve turned local flavors into worldwide culinary fame. Whether they’re on TV or behind award-winning kitchens, these chefs are the real deal.
Kiwi Influencers Shaping Hospitality & Tourism in 2025
Meet the bloggers, chefs, and explorers who make even the most remote corners of NZ feel like the hottest spots on the global map
The Future of the Wine Industry in New Zealand: 2025 and beyond
New Zealand’s 6 New Hotel Openings in 2025
From Auckland’s buzzing waterfront to Invercargill’s southern charm, these six new Kiwi hotels promise fresh stays in 2025. Explore vibrant communal lounges, boutique luxury suites, and rooftop bars—plus insider deals if you book early!
Preparing for the AI Shift: Supercharging hospitality teams
The hospitality industry thrives on personal touch and exceptional service. Learn how integrating AI can amplify these elements by empowering your team with tools tailored to their needs.
2024 HM Awards - New Zealand Nominees
We’re thrilled to showcase and celebrate the New Zealand nominees for the 2024 HM Awards, an event that recognizes the absolute best in hospitality. From luxury hotels and charming boutique properties to standout chefs and front-of-house talent, New Zealand’s venues and professionals continue to shine. As a leading hospitality recruitment agency in New Zealand, we’re proud to be part of this success by helping hotels and restaurants find the top-tier talent they need to thrive in a competitive market.
A Hotel Is Just a Building: It's the People Who Make It Home
You know, after years in the hospitality industry—from managing lodges in the Marlborough Sounds to front desks in bustling Auckland—you start to realize a thing or two. One biggie? A hotel is just a building. What truly makes a hotel come alive are the people within it. It's the small gestures, the genuine connections, and the personal touches that turn a place to stay into a place you don't want to leave.
Why Empathy is the Heart of Hospitality
In the fast-paced world of hospitality, empathy isn't just a bonus—it's the foundation. From historic roots of manaakitanga in New Zealand to modern guest relations, empathy shapes the guest experience, turning one-time visitors into lifelong advocates. Whether it's handling complaints with grace or leading a team with understanding, empathy remains the key to success in hospitality. Let's dive into why this core value has never been more crucial for hospitality professionals today.
Mastering the Art of Managing Your Head Chef
Managing a Head Chef isn’t just about keeping the kitchen running—it’s about building a partnership that enhances every aspect of your venue. Learn how to navigate this complex relationship with practical, real-world strategies.In this guide, we delve into the art of managing a Head Chef, offering insights that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re a GM, venue manager, or owner-operator, discover how to elevate your culinary operations
Top 6 Must-Visit Dunedin Restaurants in 2024
Dunedin’s culinary scene is set to shine in 2024, offering a mix of historical charm, modern innovation, and local flavors. Discover the top 6 restaurants that are defining this vibrant city’s dining experience. From the luxurious Press Club at Fable Hotel Dunedin to the seaside elegance of Titi Restaurant, and the cozy maritime atmosphere at Careys Bay Historic Hotel, these venues offer unforgettable meals steeped in Southern New Zealand’s rich culinary heritage. Whether it’s wood-fired delights at No. 7 Balmac or the authentic Italian cuisine at The Esplanade, there’s something for every palate. Make sure to also savor the European-inspired dishes at Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant. Explore Dunedin’s top dining spots and enjoy a taste of the South Island’s finest offerings.
2024's Biggest Hospitality News Updates in New Zealand
New Zealand’s hospitality sector is seeing major shake-ups in 2024. From the repeal of Fair Pay Agreements to the restructuring of regional tourism boards and the appointment of a dedicated Minister for Tourism, these changes are set to reshape the industry landscape.
7 Wellington Restaurants You Have To Check Out in 2024
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Wellington with our top seven must-visit restaurants for 2024. From vegetarian fine dining to Asian fusion and classic French elegance, these dining spots offer something for everyone. Don't miss out on these unique culinary adventures in New Zealand's capital!
Top 40 Global Hospitality Trends Redefining Dining: 2014 to 2024
Dive into the latest hospitality trends that are redefining dining experiences. From robotics and virtual reality to zero-waste practices and plant-based menus, explore how the industry is evolving to meet the demands of modern consumers.
Auckland’s Exciting New Restaurant Openings in 2024
Discover Auckland's most anticipated restaurant openings of 2024 and the exciting career opportunities they bring. From luxury dining spots like Queens Rooftop to innovative eateries like Itameshi, Hospo HR is your gateway to advancing in New Zealand's vibrant hospitality industry.
Top 7 Queenstown Restaurants You Need to Check Out in 2024
Queenstown's culinary scene is buzzing with excitement for 2024. From fine dining to casual eateries, explore the top 7 restaurants you can't miss.
Retaining Quality Hospitality Staff in New Zealand's Competitive Job Market
In the fast-paced world of New Zealand hospitality, keeping your best staff can be as challenging as finding them. From creating a strong community to embracing flexibility and providing growth opportunities, this blog explores essential strategies that can transform your workforce management. Dive into practical tips and innovative approaches to ensure your hospitality staff not only join your team but also choose to stay.
Auckland's Newest Stars: Top Hotel Openings of 2023-2024
GET IN TOUCH
Send your feedback, ideas, or industry updates you want us to showcase. We welcome guest features, event announcements, and opportunities to collaborate. Get in touch with our Chief Contributor, Joshua Thomas.

