Episode 90
Remembering Sam Neill, Michelin Stars & Hospitality That Lasts
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Watch: On youtube
This episode begins by paying tribute to Sam Neill—celebrated actor, founder of Two Paddocks, and one of the great champions of Central Otago wine. Pete reflects on Sam's lasting contribution to New Zealand's wine industry and the legacy he leaves behind.
From there, the conversation heads to Queenstown, exploring world-class hospitality, the newly awarded two-Michelin-star restaurant Essence, and the remarkable transformation of Ayrburn into one of New Zealand's most exciting food and wine destinations.
Along the way, TK and Pete discuss Michelin stars, restaurant awards, hospitality careers, and why the greatest achievements are often measured not by accolades, but by the people, teams, and communities built along the way.
A thoughtful conversation about wine, leadership, legacy, and the enduring impact of great hospitality.
Episode 89
Strippers, Camels & The Health Department
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Watch: On youtube
Some of the best hospitality stories are the ones you couldn't make up.
This week, TK and Pete are joined by Jade and Stacy from Humble on Duke, the tiny Sunshine Beach restaurant that has built a loyal following through exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and plenty of resilience.
The conversation explores what it takes to run a successful small restaurant—from opening during COVID and managing rising costs to building a strong team, working with suppliers, and creating a venue that keeps locals coming back.
Along the way, the discussion takes some unexpected turns: working behind the bar at a strip club, one of the most bizarre customer complaints imaginable involving camel on the menu, and the strange moments that every hospitality professional eventually collects.
Beneath the laughs is a thoughtful conversation about restaurant ownership, leadership, customer expectations, and why running a successful hospitality business is about much more than what's on the plate.