Richard VS Freddie – The Come Back

This event is now SOLD OUT, please email to be added to our waitlist – events@novotelnewplymouth.com

Due to popular demand, we have now added a second night for this event!

From the very first battle in 2020 to now, the Ponder brothers have taken a breather, and are now set to return to the kitchen to battle it out this March.

It is time for the Ponder brothers to reunite and go head-to-head once again, fighting for the crown in 2026. This event is always a fast sell out, so do not ponder for too long.

With a six-course dinner and a culinary battle on our hands, it is a night you will not want to miss.

$145pp | Six Courses

Additional Option | $50pp for wine matching 

Freddie, the award-winning chef from Shining Peak Brewery, and Richard, our very own Executive Head Chef at Haukai, degustation extraordinaires, are busy crafting their degustation battle menu. Each will showcase three dishes in a head-to-head culinary showdown!

Freddie took the crown in the early days with victories in 2020 and 2021, before Richard claimed the title in 2022, 2023, and 2024. After a breather in 2025, the brothers are fired up and ready to re battle in 2026.

YOU decide who takes home bragging rights, with guest voting for each course and a crisp high five awarded to the winner at the end of the night.

Price

$145 per person for six courses, wine matches available for an additional cost of $50pp.

Turn your evening into a shared experience

This night is all about gathering around great food, great conversation, and celebrating the epic culinary clash of the Ponder twins. If you’re booking for two, why not make the most of the evening by joining a shared table?

Dietaries

Unfortunately, due to the nature of this event, we cannot cater for any dietary requirements. Thank you for your understanding.

To Book

To Book simply follow the steps below to book your tickets! Any additional requests or dietaries please email our events team on events@novotelnewplymouth.com or add your comments into the allocated box!

Doors will open for drinks from 6pm – seated for dinner at 6:30pm

T&Cs

No discounts applicable for this event, bookings are essential, R18 only. No cancellations after 19th March!