Introducing The Barista Open
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A new regional format built for people, places, and participation
In 2026, we are introducing a new way to run regional barista competitions. It is called The Barista Open, and it has been designed with clear goals.
More people are competing.
More regions involved.
More community around coffee.
Over the past few years, we have heard consistent feedback from across the Aotearoa coffee community. Baristas want to compete, but traditional formats can feel intimidating, time-heavy, or out of reach. Regions want to host events, but the logistics can be a barrier. Sponsors and volunteers want impact without burnout.
The Barista Open is our response.
Why we created The Barista Open
The specialty coffee community grows when more people feel welcome to step forward. That includes first-time competitors, smaller regions, and venues that want to be involved without needing a full championship setup.
This new format allows us to:
- Run regionals in more places, more often
- Lower the barrier to entry for new competitors
- Create events that are engaging for live audiences
- Build stronger local coffee communities
- Provide a clear pathway into national competition formats
The Barista Open keeps the skill, pressure, and excitement of competition while removing unnecessary complexity.
What’s changed
The Barista Open is a fast-paced, head-to-head knockout competition. Two baristas compete at a time. One progresses. The rounds are short, clear, and easy to follow.
Each match includes:
- A one-minute introduction where baristas can show personality and connect with the crowd
- A three-minute dial-in and setup
- A five-minute beverage round serving espresso, dairy milk, and alternative milk
- A one-minute clean-down, just like real service
Judging is done side by side, with transparent paddle decisions announced live. The focus is on taste, presentation, and overall experience rather than lengthy technical scoring sheets
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A different kind of competition atmosphere
This is not designed to feel formal or distant. The Barista Open is lively, social, and watchable.
Competitors are encouraged to:
- Engage with judges and the MC
- Bring energy and creativity to their introduction
- Treat the stage like a shared space, not a closed door
It is a place where newer baristas can stand alongside experienced competitors, learn by doing, and feel supported by the room.
Supporting new competitors
The winning spot is open only to competitors who have not placed top three in the National Barista comp in the past five years.
This is intentional. The Barista Open is designed to help new and emerging competitors step forward, build confidence, and access the support our community can offer as they begin their competition journey.
Experienced competitors are still welcome to compete and be part of the event. The pathway prize is reserved for those taking their first steps toward the national stage.
The winner receives a paid entry into the Meadowfresh New Zealand Barista Champs, along with support from NZSCA to help prepare for the national stage, with a new buddy program (keep your eyes peeled for more details)
Everyone is still able to enter the National competition.
The bigger picture
The Barista Open allows us to scale regional competitions in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and exciting. It strengthens grassroots participation while protecting the integrity of our national championships.
If you have ever thought about competing but felt unsure, this format is for you.
If you love coffee events that feel alive and welcoming, this is for you.
If you care about the long-term health of our community, this is for all of us.
Regional dates and locations will be announced soon. We cannot wait to see you on stage, in the crowd, or supporting from the sidelines.
NB: This new format is only for regionals, Nationals will run as they historically have and strictly adhere to the World Coffee event rules and standards.
Hosting
Keen to host? We are looking for a diverse range of regions to host. You can be a cafe or roastery. If you are unsure if your venue would suit, please get in touch, and we will send you more information and a host pack > events@nzsca.org
Please ensure you have the business name and region in the email
Registrations open soon
Read more > The Barista Open-Competitor
Read FAQ > The Barista Open FAQ