The best of the best are coming together, the road to the Aotearoa Barista Championship 2025
After an incredible series of regionals around the pārae, it’s now almost time for the showdown. The main event, the Aotearoa Barista Champs 2025 — will take place this October, four months after the regional competitions.
You do not need to compete at regionals to enter Nationals; however, spots to compete are limited. Priority will be given to the top four competitors from each regional event, who will have first access to entry.
Regional Champions automatically secure a place at Nationals as part of their prize package.
2nd to 4th place finishers will also have spots reserved for them and receive 50% off their entry fee.
These reserved spots must be claimed via a special entry channel before general entries open on the 28 April. Details on how to register will be shared directly with place-getters after each regional event.
Date: Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August 2025
Location: Whirinaki Whare Taonga Centre, 836 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt
From precision pours to next-level flavour, this is where skill meets stage. Regional champions, runner-ups, and open ticketed competitors will go head-to-head for the national crown — and the chance to represent Aotearoa on the world stage.
Expect two days of high energy, tight competition, good vibes, and incredible coffee.
Stay tuned for tickets, the full schedule, and how to get involved.
Limited places to compete — don’t miss your shot.
Who Will Be Crowned the Aotearoa Barista Champion 2025?
This is New Zealand’s most prestigious coffee competition — the pinnacle of barista craft, skill, and passion.
The winner will go on to represent Aotearoa at the World Barista Championship 2026 at the World of Coffee Panama, on October 23-25, 2026, at the Panama Convention Center, marking the first World of Coffee trade show ever held in Central America.with flights and accommodation included as part of the prize.
With Thanks to Our Principal Sponsor: Meadow Fresh
Supporting the journey from Aotearoa to the world stage:
- Champion: $2,000 cash prize to assist with world travel, training, and practice milk
(Ambassador role with Meadow Fresh to be confirmed) - Runner-Up: $1,000 cash prize
- Third Place: $500 cash prize
Proudly backing excellence in specialty coffee and the incredible baristas who drive it.
The People’s Champion
Walks away with bragging rights, assorted goodies, and a bar tab, because the people always have their own champion.
Judges expressions of interest>
Open ticketing drops 28 April 9am
Workshop for competitors, judges and coaches etc>
Judges resources scoresheets and rules here>
#AotearoaBaristaChamps #NZBaristaChamps #RoadToTheWorld
Registered Competitors so far:
- Nelson Soon Representing Starbucks New Zealand, Auckland
- Alan Bruce Representing Acme Cup Co, Wellington
- Rob Hulse Representing Anchor, Auckland
