A foodie's guide to Auckland Cup Week
Dust off your headwear ladies and prepare to be wowed by racing season's best culinary offerings.
March's arrival brings with it the glitz and glamour of Auckland Cup Week.
In keeping with previous years, glamorous guests will flock to Ellerslie Racecourse to sip champagne, graze on spreads dreamt up by some of the city's favourite chefs and enjoy all the race day action trackside. From Masu's Nic Watt to The Grove's Ben Bayly, Auckland's illustrious Cup Week has garnered a reputation for boasting some of the best spreads on offer.
From Derby Day to Cup Day, here's what you can expect in this year's best tents:
1. The Swisse Oasis
Known as one of the best places to soak up race day, the Swisse Oasis provides a luxurious escape from the heat, with delicious food and beverage to match. Following on from their 2016 event where Swisse partnered with celebrated local chef Ben Bayly of The Grove, this year will see Swisse team up with Odette's head Chef, Josh Kucharick.
Swisse guests will also be invited to head up to the Aperol Sundowners Deck, to enjoy an afternoon of crisp Italian-style cocktails and entertainment from The Peacekeepers and Isaac Aesili, among others.
2. GH Mumm Racing Village
Mumm Racing Village is also scheduled to return, boasting an array of delicious culinary offerings from the team at SkyCity and plenty of on-site entertainment throughout the afternoon. Guests will enjoy Mumm Cordon Rouge on arrival, sprawling racecourse views and music from the Kiwi DJ duo Sweet Mix Kids, alongside special guests. Those enjoying the action from the Mumm Village will also have access to a full cash bar and TAB.
Come Auckland Cup Day, Mumm guests will be treated to a delicious Mumm Rosé Champagne Cocktail, curated for race day and garnished with fresh strawberries and a splash of grapefruit juice.
Auckland Cup Week, Saturday, March 4 and Saturday, March 11 at Ellerslie Racecourse.
latest issue:
Issue #115
Issue 115 is packed with inspiration for all kinds of cosy meals – whether you’re dining alone, as two or with a few. We start with our Plating Game interview with Jesse Mulligan which inspired a medley of curries and sides then move on to a round up of easy one-pan chicken dishes, a variety of pasta bakes and meatballs, and using one simple yet delicious tart base we whip up five fab filling options. Sarah’s wintry faves include a moreish chorizo (not) carbonara, lamb and spinach filo pie and we finish off with sweet treats and decadent puds. We love seeing what you create, don’t forget to share your dish dishes with our Facebook community. When it comes to winter cooking, make it SIMPLY YUM!