CELEBRATING OUR SAUSAGE JUDGES – THE UNSUNG HEROES BEHIND THE GREAT NEW ZEALAND SAUSAGE COMPETITION

 

Pictured above L to R: Brian Everton, Greig Buckley, Lynn Lum and Kathy Paterson

Since 1997, the Great New Zealand Sausage Competition has been celebrating one of our nation’s most-loved smallgoods, the humble sausage. Over nearly three decades, the competition has grown in scale and reputation, showcasing the incredible skill, creativity, and passion of butchers and producers from across the country.

But behind every perfectly scored sausage, there’s another essential ingredient that makes this event possible – our judges.

In 2025, judging took place over six days, across 37 sessions, with a panel of 52 judges. These dedicated individuals come from within the meat industry and the wider food sector, generously giving their time and expertise to taste, assess, and provide valuable feedback on entries. Their insights help drive continuous improvement, lifting the quality and standard of sausages enjoyed by Kiwi consumers every year.

Our judges are a vital part of this competition, and we greatly appreciate their time, palate, and passion for food. Many of them have been part of the judging team for years, turning up each competition season with enthusiasm and a hearty appetite to sample the next great sausage.

This year, we were proud to recognise four long-serving judges who have each contributed over a decade of service to the competition – their commitment and expertise have been invaluable.

A huge congratulations and thank you to:

  • Lynn Lum

  • Greig Buckley, Kai Foods

  • Brian Everton, Cabernet Foods

  • Kathy Paterson (unable to attend this year’s presentation)

We were delighted to present these dedicated judges with a special award in appreciation of their outstanding contribution to the competition.

On behalf of Retail Meat New Zealand, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our judges, past and present, for their efforts and foodie expertise across our product competitions. Judging plays a vital role in identifying New Zealand’s top smallgoods, and your ongoing support ensures the Great New Zealand Sausage Competition continues to set the bar for quality and excellence.

 
Caroline Peach