Top bartender ready to mentor others

ON A HIGH: Mala Waqanimaravu will now focus on helping up and coming bartenders. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER 100914SP2

He’s been a favourite on the Rotorua bar scene for years and this year was again named Outstanding Bartender at the Rotorua Hospitality Awards. We talked to Cobb and Co’s Mala Waqanimaravu

What did it mean to you to win Outstanding Bartender at the Rotorua Hospitality Awards?
This year was different as we had the judging component which was fantastic. Winning this year with the new criteria has reaffirmed my win in 2012 and my finalist placing last year. It's now time for me to stand down from the awards and focus on teaching up and coming bartenders and being a judge for competitions.

How long have you been bartending?

I have been bartending and in hospitality for almost 15 years. Six of those years in international five star resorts overseas.

What's your proudest accomplishment during your bartending career?

Being invited to serve on the red carpet at the Academy Awards in 2011 that was sponsored by Grey Goose vodka. I didn't attend as I put my air fare towards Rugby World Cup final tickets instead. It sure was a proud moment to witness the final whistle!

What's your definition of the perfect cocktail?

The perfect Dry Martini - just the right amount of dry vermouth, good quality gin and they must have three olives. It's a drink that's smooth and dry on the palate, with a saltiness from the olives that enhances the floral bouquet of the gin. To round it off, of course, it needs to be served in a chilled Martini glass - this time I say "stirred not shaken".

What's your favourite thing about your job?

Meeting different people every day from different places and seeing them satisfied with their experience. I also enjoy working with the "Cobb Crew", great staff and management.

The least favourite thing about your job?

When dissatisfied customers don't say anything to staff or management so that we are unable to fix the problem. It is better that we know if something is not right so that we can learn from it and rectify any issues. If we don't know, we can't fix it.

What's the most popular drink at Cobb and Co?

Pina colada - both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.

If you could do any other job for a day what would it be and why?

I would love to be the milkman! Those in the know will know what I'm talking about.

What's the best thing about living and working in Rotorua?

Great place, great people, great location that is central. A large tourism industry that filters through to hospitality. Most people know each other in hospitality and that adds to the great dynamic of our industry - the manaakitanga of Rotorua.