Well known meat industry figure David Baines has been recognised for his work in the sector, winning the prestigious Christie Award.
Baines, who is the general manager of New Zealand Pork, was announced as the winner at the Alto Butcher & ANZCO Foods Butcher Apprentice Awards dinner in Auckland on Thursday night.
Now in its tenth year, the retail meat industry's annual award recognises 'a lifetime of commitment, fervour and perseverance to enhance the trade.'
It was set up in honour of Geof Christie, a butcher and tutor of trainee butchers in polytechnics, whose passion for his trade was tireless.
Previous Christie Award recipients included The Mad Butcher, Sir Peter Leitch; Todd Heller, founder of Hellers NZ, and Beef + Lamb New Zealand CEO, Rod Slater.
Baines said he was honoured to win the award.
"When I think of all the people who have won the award previously, they're all legends in the meat industry," he said.
"To be part of that group it's tremendously humbling and also a great honour. I'm really thrilled," said Baines.
President of Retail Meat New Zealand Jason Trewern was instrumental in the selection of Baines and said it was a well deserved win.
"I am delighted the award has gone to David. He has been instrumental in leading many meat industry organisations and steering them through some tough times," he said.
"His unwavering dedication and business knowledge along with giving countless hours of his own time shows his dedication to the betterment of the industry."
Newshub.
