Delivering seamless, memorable experiences is at the core of what we do — and achieving that requires partners who share our high standards, attention to detail, and passion for hospitality. Our long-standing collaboration with Collective Hospitality is a testament to what’s possible when values align and creativity leads. Known for their bold, design-led approach to catering, Collective consistently brings energy, precision, and a deep understanding of guest experience to every event we deliver together.

 

Who They Are

At Collective, their approach to hospitality is deeply rooted in manaakitanga - the Māori principle of care, hospitality, and respect - which informs how they treat their people, partners, land, and every guest they serve. Whether catering for 50 or 5,000, they bring a distinctly New Zealand spirit to every event through three core pillars: showcasing Aotearoa’s richness through food, driving measurable sustainability, and using technology to enhance meaningful human connection.

Collective’s culinary philosophy, led by Executive Chef Nathan McKenzie, celebrates New Zealand’s diverse landscapes through seasonal, sustainable dishes crafted with native ingredients from local growers and artisans. They're also committed to becoming Aotearoa’s most sustainable caterer, with practices like waste tracking, plastic elimination, and a strong push toward B Corp certification by 2025. Complementing their hands-on care is thoughtful innovation – technology tools like the interactive Food Map and Client Portal allow guests and clients to connect more deeply with the people and purpose behind every experience we create. 

Our Partnership 

We began working with Collective to meet growing demand for design-focused, high-impact events — and they quickly became an integral part of our extended team. Their ability to translate creative briefs into cohesive culinary and service experiences makes them an ideal partner for clients seeking something both beautiful and functional.

From early planning through to delivery, Collective is proactive, reliable, and solutions oriented. They consistently approach events not as a vendor, but as a partner, working alongside our team to ensure every detail aligns with the overall vision.

 

In Action: Transforming an Intimate Dinner Experience

One particularly memorable collaboration with Collective took place at MOTAT’s Aviation Hall, where we hosted an intimate dinner set among historic aircraft. The event called for careful attention to atmosphere, timing, and guest experience — and Collective delivered on all fronts. Their team designed a refined, elegant menu that complemented the unique setting, culminating in a standout dessert reveal nestled among ferns, creating a moment of surprise and delight for guests. The seamless integration of food, environment, and service was a perfect reflection of Collective’s creativity and attention to detail.

 

Looking Ahead

As we continue to raise the bar for our events, Collective remains a key partner in delivering innovation, quality, and professionalism. Their distinctive style, collaborative ethos, and operational excellence make them a vital part of our offering.

To learn more about Collective Hospitality, visit www.collective.co.nz or follow their journey on Instagram @collectivenz