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Video by Kaitaki Collective Member Poppie McLaren (17 yrs) - Culinary Student at NMIT & Aspiring Food Photographer.
I’m currently beginning my professional journey into the culinary arts here in Nelson at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT). I am bubbly and passionate about food, food photography and especially the hospitality industry. I’ve lived in Nelson my whole life but over the last two years I’ve become particularly interested in local food, farmers markets and what my town has to offer. Throughout my childhood I spent school holidays at my Nana and Poppa’s farm in Pelours about 40mins from Nelson, where we were spoilt with fresh fish caught from Okiwi bay, fresh venison and wild pork. To me great food isn’t just about cooking, it’s about letting the food tell the story and feeling connected to the food I create. I’m looking forward to taking this unique opportunity to help grow my knowledge about New Zealand food and support my passion for food photography. You’ll find me on Facebook and Instagram @cookingwithpoppie