Two Hawke's Bay brothers who farm organic chickens on a former apple orchard have won the top prize in this year's Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards.
The awards showcase the best of the country's locally grown and made food and drink products.
Twenty-five judges and eight stewards worked in panels to assess a record 225 food and drink entries in March.
In a virtual 'champions party' held online on Monday night, organic farmers Bostock Brothers were named the Supreme Champion for their Organic Whole Chicken.
Ben and George Bostock's operation sees chickens roam free on their parents former apple orchard. The brothers supply supermarkets and other food outlets.
The judges' comments about the product included "outstanding flavour, succulent and delicious."
Well known food and wine writer, Lauraine Jacobs oversaw the judging and said it was exciting to see many more entries, all of which displayed great depth of innovation and attention to detail in production.
"Food businesses that address these issues are helping regenerate NZ's food system to one that is more resilient, healthy and environmentally and socially responsible.
"It's good for our environment, good for people, and good for business," said Jacobs.
See the full list of awards here.
