Do you have a dream to open your own food business?
This course looks at how to turn your dream into reality and understand better, how to work methodically through the requirements.
First, we look at the foundations of establishing a successful hospitality business -
- the concept
- the important sales to ingredient cost rations
- staffing levels
- profitability behind these costs
SETTING UP
We look at key information regarding the physical setup of a business. Starting with important information from Auckland Council, or your local council, about zoning for a location and approvals for alterations to a building, formulating a food control plan, getting approval for an alcohol licence.
We then look at the equipment you may need to use and commercial kitchen food safety requirements - from refrigeration and extraction systems to types of ovens and coffee machines, flooring and much more.
HOW TO COST
We will discuss look models of how to calculate what you should sell your product for - the retail margins, as well as the cost breakdown as well, has how you are going to pay your self.
Lots to think about and learn in this one day workshop.
Celia Hay, director of the New Zealand School of Food and Wine and hospitality entrepreneur having established 10 different business and has a wealth of knowledge about how to establish and then grow a business. In 2020, Celia Hay and the New Zealand School of Food and Wine will celebrate their 25th Anniversary.
The seminar includes Celia Hay’s book How to Grow your hospitality business - a guide for owners and managers.
When: Saturday, 29 Feb from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Easter Extravaganza 2026
🎉 Get Ready for a Hopping Good Time at the Easter Extravaganza! 🐰🥚
Mark your calendars, the Easter Extravaganza 2026 at Howick Historical Village is happening on Sunday, 5 April 2026 from 10:00 am–3:00 pm! 🌼✨
This family‑friendly celebration in beautiful heritage surroundings promises plenty of fun for all ages:
🔎 Trail through historic cottages and gardens to solve clues and WIN a chocolate egg 🍫🐣
🐇 Meet the Easter Bunny and watch how aspiring bunnies are trained by the Easter Fairy in a live show 🎭
🎨 Crafts, face painting, games & races, and even a Bunny Boogie dance‑off to get everyone moving! 💃🐇
🍦 Grab treats from the gelato cart, enjoy a sausage sizzle, and explore the Village Farmers Market next door with artisan food and handmade goodies 🧺🍭
🎟️ Tickets:
• Adult $20
• Child $12
• Under 1 year FREE
Limited door sales - booking recommended!
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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60% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... It is complicated
Flower Pressing Workshop
Step back in time and discover the delicate Victorian art of flower pressing at Howick Historical Village.
Explore the gardens, gather flowers and foliage, and learn how to press and preserve them as keepsakes, just as the Victorians once did. Historical interpreter Ruth Page will guide you through the process and share tips for the best results.
📅 Dates:
• Saturday 21 March
• Saturday 28 March
• Saturday 11 April
• Saturday 18 April
⏰ 1:30–3:30pm
💲 Cost:
$28 (bring your own heavy book)
$42 (flower press included – yours to keep)
🎟 Includes entry to explore the Village (open 10am–4pm)
📩 Bookings essential – places are limited
A relaxing, creative afternoon surrounded by history and gardens — perfect for nature lovers and craft enthusiasts alike
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