How do we award the badge?

To earn this badge, a cafe must identify at least three dishes on their menu in which all the fruit and/or vegetables are currently in-season in New Zealand (see below for definition of in-season).

Why do we think it's important?

By “seasonal” we are referring to fruit and vegetables that are in-season and grown locally - within the Wellington region or wider New Zealand.  To determine which fruit and vegetables are in season, cafes should only use those that are listed as 'available' in the month they are purchased on the Seasonal Guide supplied thanks to Commonsense Organics.

Even in New Zealand, produce is often trucked from the farm to a local distribution centre before being trucked to retailers. Transporting food around the country and the globe takes a toll on the environment and on public health.

Seasonal local produce is usually fresher, cheaper and often has more flavour and nutritional value. Buying seasonal local food also helps keep money within the local community.