Future Hospitality Group finalists in Hospitality Awards
Queenstown hospo giants Future Hospitality Group have scooped three finalist spots in the national Hospitality New Zealand Awards For Excellence 2024.
They are finalists in Best Bar honour for cocktail bar Little Blackwood, Hospitality Leader of the Year (Bert Haines) and Chef of the Year (Matt Tobin) categories.
Future Hospitality Group (FHG) co-owners James Ace and Bert Haines say they are thrilled with the nominations, which reflect the hard work and passion of their team.
Little Blackwood on Steamer Wharf is a previous winner of the Best Bar award.
“Everything we do, everything we deliver, is to the highest pedigree,” says venue manager Stef Patrascu. “We know what we’re good at, and we triple-down on our hospitality, drinks and food.”
FHG Executive Chef Matt Tobin, also recognised with a nomination, started with FHG as Head Chef developing the Margo’s menu but quickly impressed owners Ace and Haines, to the extent they invited him to become a shareholder. Now he’s co-owner of Margo’s and Odd Saint with his wife Jamie Orr-Tobin and has a dedicated team around him in the kitchen and back of house.
“Matt is a true foodie who loves blending styles and surprising and delighting tastebuds,” Haines says. “Not only do Matt and his team deliver delicious dishes on the daily, but Matt brings his team with him on the ride.”
Former Southern Stampede and Ice Blacks captain Haines is a respected Queenstown hospitality icon and many admire his drive and leadership. He saw opportunity in the depths of the pandemic and alongside Ace they opened two new outlets in 2020 and have grown to seven venues across Queenstown.
“He’s one of the hardest-working people I know, and he’s truly passionate about hospitality and its people. Everything and everyone is a coaching opportunity as far as Bert is concerned,” Ace says.
The Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence 2024 Gala Dinner is in Christchurch on 31 July, when winners will be announced.
