Chef Anna Hansen named 2010 New Zealander of the Year (UK)

Anna Hansen, chef and owner of The Modern Pantry restaurant, was named as the winner of the Air new Zealand New Zealander of the Year (UK) Award 2010.

Established in 1999 by the New Zealand Society, and sponsored by Air New Zealand since 2005, the award is given annually to an individual who promotes a positive image of New Zealand in the UK.

On winning the Award, Anna said she was thrilled and honoured to be names New Zealander of the Year.

Air New Zealand's General Manager for Europe, Scott Carr, said the Award was about recognising those people from the arts and sports, from the world of food and wine, and from academia and business that have helped push New Zealand into the headlines and enhance the perception about New Zealand as a destination of modernity and sophistication in the UK.  "Anna absolutely embodies that passionate Kiwi spirit with her huge drive and commitment for things New Zealand in all her efforts in the UK culinary scene."

Twenty two different Kiwis, each outstanding in their fields, were nominated and the three finalists were Anna Hasen; Juliet Harbutt, cheese champion; and Geoff Sewell "cross over" Opera singer.

Anna was awarded two return airfares from Air New Zealand and a glass Award from the New Zealand Society.
 
For more information, contact: 
Romy Brandeis, President, New Zealand Society, nzsociety@nzsociety.co.uk or visit www.nzsociety.co.uk