Hospitality NZ｜Complete Guide to New Zealand’s Leading Hospitality Association, Membership, and Benefits
For anyone running or considering running a restaurant, café, or other hospitality business in New Zealand, there are several challenges that are commonly encountered.
For those working in the hospitality industry, connecting with one of New Zealand’s leading industry bodies, Hospitality New Zealand (“Hospitality NZ”), and its network offers a variety of benefits.
This page introduces Hospitality NZ in a clear and structured way, covering:
- What is Hospitality NZ, one of New Zealand’s leading hospitality industry associations?
- Key challenges faced by hospitality operators in New Zealand
- Four main benefits for restaurant and café owners from joining Hospitality NZ
- Membership services: Legal, HR, training, networking, and discounts
- Initiatives and case studies on multicultural engagement by Hospitality NZ
By the end, you will have a clear understanding of how Hospitality NZ can support your business in New Zealand.
【Hospitality NZ – Related Links】
：https://hospitality.org.nz/
：Hospitality New Zealand
：Hospitality New Zealand
1. What is Hospitality NZ, one of New Zealand’s leading hospitality industry associations?
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
Hospitality NZ is one of the largest industry associations in New Zealand, representing restaurants, cafés, accommodation providers, and bars nationwide.
Its mission is to act as the voice of the industry and to foster a sustainable and supportive operating environment.
- Established: 1902 (as the United Licensed Victuallers Association)
- Members: Approximately 2,500
Main Areas of Activity
Hospitality NZ’s main areas of activity include the following:
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Advocacy: Representing the industry’s interests to government and local councils, ensuring laws and policies reflect the needs of operators.
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Training & Workforce Development: Supporting skill development across the industry through online learning and leadership programmes.
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Networking & Engagement: Building connections between members and other industries through national conferences, awards, and regional events.
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Key Figures in Hospitality NZ
Hospitality NZ is guided by a number of influential leaders:
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Steve Armitage (Chief Executive):
CEO with extensive experience in tourism and local government.
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Troy Clarry (National Board Member):
Provides international insight, having managed fine-dining restaurants in Tokyo.
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Brendan Fleming (Regional Manager, Upper North Island):
Serves as a link between regional branches and members, addressing local challenges directly.
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Tim Read (Board Member, former MasterChef NZ winner):
Brings practical industry perspectives as a well-known chef and public figure.
Together, this leadership team plays a pivotal role in shaping and supporting New Zealand’s hospitality industry.
[Reference]
Name Changes and History
Hospitality NZ is a long-established organisation founded in 1902, and its main history is as follows.
| 1902年 | Established as United Licensed Victuallers (*) It was established to represent the interests of around 2,500 hospitality and commercial accommodation businesses. |
| 1958年 | Renamed as the Hotel Association of New Zealand |
| 1995年 | Renamed as the Hospitality Association of New Zealand (HANZ) |
| 2011年 | Renamed as Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) |
For Anyone Curious About Hospitality NZ
If you’re even a little curious, we recommend taking a quick look at the official website and social media below.You might find information that could benefit your business starting today!
【Hospitality NZ – Related Links】
2. Key Challenges in New Zealand’s Hospitality Industry
Running a hospitality business in New Zealand often comes with unique challenges, shaped by the country’s laws, culture, and labour environment.
Below are four common issues that many operators face.
1) Legal and Regulatory Differences
Business owners must comply with a range of laws covering employment contracts, labour standards, minimum wage, and liquor licensing.
Misunderstanding these requirements can lead to compliance breaches or unexpected penalties, which may put the stability of a business at risk.
2) Language and Communication Barriers
Daily operations, including staff management, contracts, and official paperwork, are often complex and highly dependent on clear communication.
Misunderstandings or errors in communication can create unnecessary risks, especially in a diverse workforce.
3) Labour Shortages and Staff Retention
The hospitality sector in New Zealand has long struggled with chronic staff shortages.
Even when new employees are recruited, many leave within a short period of time, creating an ongoing challenge for operators who must constantly invest in hiring and training.
4) Lack of Local Networks and Access to Information
Each region has its own business culture and market trends.
Without access to reliable networks and up-to-date information, operators may feel isolated and risk making poor business decisions.
3. Four Key Benefits of Hospitality NZ for Restaurant and Café Owners
For restaurant and café owners, membership with Hospitality NZ provides practical benefits that directly support daily operations and long-term stability.
Here are four of the most significant advantages.
Benefit 1:
Confidence in Compliance
Navigating regulations such as food safety and liquor licensing can be complicated and time-consuming.
With Hospitality NZ’s guidelines and resources, owners can handle the necessary procedures more smoothly and reduce the risk of violations.
Benefit 2:
Staff Training and Retention Support
Beyond specialised cuisine or service, creating an environment where staff can learn the fundamentals of hospitality is key to keeping them engaged.
Hospitality NZ’s training programmes allow owners to share the responsibility of staff development, helping employees feel more secure and motivated to stay longer.
Benefit 3:
Opportunities for Events and Media Exposure
Through multicultural events and collaborations with industry organisations, restaurants and cafés have opportunities to be showcased to wider audiences.
Participation not only strengthens community ties but also creates potential for positive word of mouth and media visibility.
Benefit 4:
Cost Savings and Improved Procurement
Members can access discounts through partner companies for equipment, appliances, and insurance.
These cost-saving opportunities help operators manage overheads more effectively, providing financial stability – especially important for businesses with limited budgets.
4. Membership services: Legal, HR, training, networking, and discounts
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
Hospitality NZ operates a membership system that provides a wide range of services to support both business operations and everyday challenges.
The main four benefits are outlined below.
Support 1:
Legal and HR Assistance
(Source: Hospitality NZ)引用：Hospitality NZ
Regarding Legal Support and HR Support, Hospitality NZ offers templates for employment contracts and workplace regulations, as well as a consultation service when issues arise.
For business owners unfamiliar with local laws and employment systems, having access to expert advice at critical moments provides a strong sense of security.
Support 2:
Training and Staff Development
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
Regarding Training, with access to over 1,500 online lessons through the “Typsy” learning platform and leadership development programmes, members can train staff from the basics of hospitality to advanced management skills – even from home.
This helps turn new hires into immediate contributors, maintains motivation among existing staff, and supports long-term retention.
Support 3:
Networking and Events
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
Members can participate in national conferences, awards, and regional events, providing opportunities to connect with peers and cross-industry professionals.
These events foster information sharing and collaboration, often leading to new partnerships and customer relationships.
In addition, category-based searches are also available for added convenience as below.
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
Support 4:
Member-Exclusive Discounts
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
From insurance to kitchen equipment and appliances, members can access discounted rates through partner companies.
These savings help reduce operating costs while maintaining quality standards – a crucial advantage in an industry where start-up and ongoing expenses can be significant.
Additional Support:
Regional Branches and Local Services
Hospitality NZ maintains 18 regional branches supported by seven regional managers across the country.
This structure ensures that members can receive practical, location-specific support, whether in major cities or smaller towns.
For example, Auckland’s Ethnic Advisory Group includes members who help reflect the voices of diverse communities within the organisation.
Watching the official introduction video will also help you get a clearer picture of their activities.
(Source: Hospitality NZ)
For example, Auckland’s Ethnic Advisory Group includes members who help reflect the voices of diverse communities within the organisation.
Interested in Membership?
By leveraging Hospitality NZ’s membership services, operators can discover new ways to strengthen and sustain their businesses. If you’re curious, it’s worth taking just a minute to explore the details on the official site.[Hospitality NZ Membership – Official Page]
https://hospitality.org.nz/join
5. Multicultural Initiatives and Case Studies of Hospitality NZ
New Zealand is a multicultural society, and Hospitality NZ works closely with ethnic communities to support the development of the hospitality industry.
These initiatives provide valuable learning opportunities and open new possibilities for businesses of all backgrounds.
Auckland Ethnic Advisory Group
（引用：Hospitality NZ）
The Auckland Ethnic Advisory Group plays a vital role in ensuring that the voices of business owners and staff from immigrant and ethnic backgrounds are reflected in the organisation’s operations.
By respecting cultural diversity, it functions as a framework to secure fairness and inclusivity across the entire industry.
Strategic Plan (2024–2029)
（引用：Hospitality NZ）
Hospitality NZ’s five-year strategic plan clearly states that “our membership should be as diverse as the industry and the customers we serve.”
This policy demonstrates a commitment to welcoming members from all backgrounds, offering a positive environment for a wide range of operators, including ethnic food businesses.
Tourism & Hospitality Accord
（Source: Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment）
In partnership with the government, the Tourism & Hospitality Accord emphasises fair employment practices and diversity in the workplace.
This initiative helps ensure that business owners and staff from diverse backgrounds can work in safe and equitable conditions.
Case Study 1:
Outreach to the Japanese Community
(Top: Source – Chow Luck Club, Bottom: Author’s photo)
In recent years, Hospitality NZ has also been strengthening its outreach efforts to ethnic groups such as the Indian and Japanese communities.
As part of these efforts, at the Japan Business Club NZ meeting held in September 2025, the following four individuals – mentioned earlier – joined as guest speakers and took part in speeches and a Q&A session (venue: Ikku Japanese Restaurant).
⚫︎ Regional Manager
→ Brendan Fleming, Tim Read
⚫︎ Ethnic Advisory Group members
→ Bee Keng Hoh, Lincoln Tan
Case Study 2:
Chow Luck Club
(Source: Chow Luck Club)
Launched in 2021 by Lincoln Tan and Bee Koh, Chow Luck Club actively promotes the appeal of ethnic food through various events and markets.
Its Facebook page has over 20,000 followers, offering valuable inspiration for Japanese food business owners who may find ideas to apply to their own restaurants.
6. Conclusion｜The Value of Hospitality NZ in New Zealand’s Hospitality Industry
Hospitality NZ stands out as one of the key organisations that helps operators work with confidence and sustain their businesses in New Zealand’s hospitality sector.
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It provides a safety net for understanding and complying with laws and regulations.
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It offers systems to support staff training, development, and retention.
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It creates opportunities to connect through networks and events.
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It opens doors to promote cultural diversity and showcase unique cuisines.
By making effective use of these benefits, hospitality operators can build a stronger foundation for success and contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive industry in New Zealand!
【Hospitality NZ – Related Links】
：https://hospitality.org.nz/
：Hospitality New Zealand
：Hospitality New Zealand
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