28/05/2026
Great food and wine bring people together, which is exactly why we’ve created our new Hawke's Bay Food & Wine Experience at Kiwiesque.
This winter, groups staying at the Lodge can book an exclusive hosted evening with owner and head chef of Restaurant Ari, Simon Lillico and Hawke’s Bay wine legend Gordon Russell - bringing together incredible local food, matched wines, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings.
It’s not a formal sit-down dinner where everyone disappears afterwards. Gordon’s pouring wines and sharing stories from decades in the Hawke’s Bay wine industry. Simon is cooking right there in front of you. Your group are gathered around the kitchen bench, glasses in hand, watching the next course come together.
Everything happens right here at Kiwiesque. The fire’s on, the wines are flowing, and your whole group can stay, eat, relax and enjoy the experience together without needing to head anywhere else.
Designed for corporate groups, client hosting, couples weekends, celebrations, and food and wine lovers wanting something a little different this winter.
Your hosted experience includes:
- A 3-course dinner prepared by Chef Simon Lillico
- Wine matches with every course
- A hosted 45-minute wine tasting experience by wine expert Gordon Russell
- Interactive cooking demonstrations for entrée and dessert
- Recipe cards to take home
You can find the full Hawke's Bay Food & Wine Experience details at kiwiesque.com.