Two chefs from Hook Wānaka have brought home medals after competing in the Caputo Cup - held for the first time in New Zealand at Fine Food New Zealand 2025 at the Auckland Showgrounds (June 30 - July 1).

The competition, which honours the traditional craft of Neapolitan pizza-making under the official regulations of the Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani (APN), attracted top pizza chefs from across the country.

Simone Coacci placed third in the Pizza Napoletana STG category, which required contestants to master the art of classic Neapolitan pizza - made with specific ingredients, techniques, and cooking methods recognised by the APN.

Sam Mari earned third place in the Pizza Contemporanea category, which focuses on modern approaches to dough fermentation, innovative toppings, and presentation.

The Caputo Cup is one of the most respected pizza competitions in the world, and this year’s New Zealand debut marks a milestone for the country’s growing artisan pizza scene.

Hook Wānaka owner Graham Lee said the team was “delighted” with the results.

“To have two of our chefs placed in such a high-level event is a massive achievement - and it reflects the care and craft they put into every dish at Hook,” he said.

PHOTO: Supplied