Restaurants and cafes in downtown Tauranga are being encouraged to develop a signature dish that they think best sums up what the region produces.
Downtown Tauranga is running the three-week competition in September to highlight the diverse range of eateries in the city centre.
Restaurants and cafés can showcase their dish on their menu during the promotion period.
Dishes will be judged by a panel and a winner named.
There will also be a people's choice award where the community can vote for their favourite dish.