Gourmet support for gastro stricken neighbours

CHEERS: The faces behind the Super Sunday initiative - Shaye Bird, (left), Sarah Watson, Sam Jackman, Steve Olley, Ailne Bradley, and Jamie Buckley. PHOTO/Paul Taylor

Napier foodies opened their wallets and raised a glass in support of their Havelock North neighbours yesterday.

The group bussed to the village for an afternoon of wine and food, hopping between businesses still struggling after the campylobacter outbreak.

Hawke's Bay's president for Hospitality New Zealand, Shaye Bird, said Super Sunday was created as a way for Napier hospitality providers to help others in the industry.

The food hop between Havelock North establishments was welcomed by providers who jumped on board.

The crawl started at Deliciosa where a glass of bubbles was served with pulled pork sliders and seafood chowder.

From Deliciosa, the crowd moved to Loading Ramp before going to Namaskar and Pipi. The hop finished at Hugo Chang with cocktails and music.

Havelock North Business Association president Sam Jackman said he was thrilled by the support from Napier and wanted to let residents know that the village was very much open for business.

"I want everyone to come to the party and get Havelock North businesses back on deck."

Deliciosa owner Sarah Watson said the business had been through a tough couple of weeks and when this initiative was brought up she did not even hesitate to say yes.

"I think it is such a nice story and has definitely brought a positive feeling back in to the village," she said.

Monica Loves owner Dan Tosswill said he knew how hard it was in the hospitality industry without patrons.

"We just wanted to get out and show some support by spending money. This time of year is already tough and if the money does not come then it makes even harder".

Local Havelock North resident Lisa Emmor said it was an "awesome" opportunity to be able to help businesses out.

"It was such a simple way of supporting them while enjoying the lovely food and drink at the same time".

Loading Ramp owner Jarrod Lowe was amazed by the support and said it was great to see colleagues sharing the love.

Mr Jackman said there will be another Super Sunday coming up in the next couple of weeks with five village eateries included.

"We have a couple of new campaigns to announce this week, so things are definitely starting to look brighter".

"I just really want everyone to come on down to the village, as we are very much open and raring to go," he said.