Spy: Moving on from Masterchef

The Masterchef judges say they're sad to move on from the show but have plenty of other projects on the go.

Speculation was rife this week that MasterChef's death was only temporarily to deflect salary increases to its star hosts.

But TVNZ was quick to pooh-pooh that rumour, saying it was simply time for a fresh start with its new DIY show, Our First Home.

Last week, a spokesperson confirmed the popular cooking series would not return for a sixth season.

And although Josh Emett and Simon Gault are sad to see the show end, their restaurants, sponsorships and kitchen lines are more than enough to keep them busy.

The newly trim Gault is throwing all his creative talents into getting fabulous food stations ready for the upcoming Viva event Outlandish on Wednesday, November 12. Expect Gault's magic mixed with ultra-glamorous theming to create a spectacular moving feast that starts in the dark ages and moves through time and imagination.

Meanwhile, Emett was ever-diplomatic: "I am very sad that MasterChef NZ is leaving TV One. I had an amazing time making the show, ate some incredible food and met some great people. It's business as usual for me with restaurants (Rata, Madam Woo, Ostro) and other projects (Chef Series and MasterMatch). There is plenty to keep me busy and out of trouble as well as making time for my lovely wife and boys."

Spy understands Emett has created a special menu for the hottest new club in town. The Seafarers Club opens in November and Auckland denizens wanting to join will have to cough up a $1500 joining fee.

The spacious lounge and rooftop garden has an amazing view, and manager Vincent Rey cheekily told Spy the price tag "is the same as a wasted gym membership and you get a new modern twist on clubs such as the Northern Club".

The membership will also take you global, with reciprocal relationships with Hospital Club in London, Brody House in Budapest, Norwood Club in New York and Club Matador in Madrid, and you will be able to use their facilities when visiting.