An Italian Foodie Adventure

Can you journey to Italy without ever leaving New Zealand?

Join BOP Eats for our inaugural culinary weekend to experience a taste of Italy, reimagined in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and undiscovered regions. Enjoy truffle hunting, hands-on pasta making, a mixology class with Campari, a decadent long Italian lunch and a Range Rover driving experience – all without boarding a plane.

Together, we’ll explore the sunny Bay of Plenty’s best Italian-inspired seasonal produce, meet passionate local makers and slow down over food that’s made to be shared.

Who is your host?

Hosted by Stacey Jones, voted by Cuisine magazine as one of the Top 50 Women in Food & Drink in New Zealand, and featuring guest appearances from the Bay’s leading producers, chefs and truffle experts. This is a weekend of earthy goodness, deep connection and hands-on flavour.

What are the details?

When: Two weekends to choose from:
– 25–27 July 2025
– 1–3 August 2025
Where: Clarence Hotel, Tauranga
The total cost of the experience is normally $2399 but we are offering our first experience at a special introductory price of $1,995 NZD per person (twin share).
A supplement of $350pp is required for single room bookings.

How do I book?

There are only twelve seats at the table—no crowds, no hit-or-miss meals, just genuine behind-the-scenes access to New Zealand’s most memorable flavours and food stories.

To secure your place:

Reserve with a 20% deposit at the time of booking.
Pay the remaining 80% balance no later than 28 days before the experience.

View the full brochure

Questions?
Contact your host at hello@bopeats.co.nz or book a quick call HERE>>.

FAQs

What’s included?

All meals, drinks and activities (truffle hunt, pasta workshop, Campari mixology, long Italian lunch, Range Rover experience)
Two nights’ accommodation at the Clarence Hotel
Transfers between each activity and the hotel
Professional guides, guest chefs and hosts

What’s not included?

Flights or travel to Tauranga
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, spa treatments, etc.)
Travel insurance

What are the start & end times?

Friday meet-up & welcome drinks at 3pm (early check in on request)
Sunday checkout by 11 am

Dietary requirements?
Let us know at booking if you have allergies or special dietary needs.

What is the cancellation & refund policy?

Full refund if you cancel more than 28 days before the start date
50% refund if you cancel 14–28 days before
No refund for cancellations within 14 days of the event