Tickets now available for 2025 Regional Barista Champs

Tickets for the 2025 Aotearoa Regional Barista Champs are now available to purchase.

The competition series will be held in Christchurch on 30 March, Wellington on 6 April, and Auckland on 13 April, with venues for each location yet to be confirmed.

Tickets purchased before 17 February will receive a complimentary pass to the Barista Champs Workshop Online: Interpretation and Expectations of the Scoresheet, held on 26 February from 6pm to 9pm.

The workshop, designed for judges, competitors, and coaches in the Aotearoa Barista Champs will break down the scoring categories to prepare for the event.

Additionally, the New Zealand Specialty Coffee Association (NZSCA) is calling on sponsor participation, with open tender available for green coffee, grinders, barista tools, and packaging sponsors.

As part of the regional championships, baristas will have the chance to showcase their skills by serving four espresso drinks and four milk-based beverages, all while demonstrating exceptional customer service. Three regional titles will be up for grabs, with prizes yet to be announced.

NZSCA will provide all necessary equipment, including machines, grinders, milk, cups, spoons, and tampers. Judging will be conducted by a panel, who will assess each presentation based on taste and creativity. Competitors will have five minutes to dial in their coffee and 11 minutes to present their beverages.

The 2025 Barista Champs will be held from 23 to 25 August at Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Upper Hutt.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the NZSCA website.