About Us
At Bites & Beats Aotearoa, we’re a passionate team dedicated to creating world-class food festivals that celebrate the best of what New Zealand has to offer. Our mission is simple: to bring communities together through unforgettable experiences filled with incredible flavours, vibrant entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
We carefully curate each event by collating the finest food vendors, local talent, and cultural experiences, ensuring every festival is a true reflection of the diversity and creativity across Aotearoa. Whether it’s discovering your new favourite dish, enjoying live music, or simply soaking up the energy with friends and family, Bites & Beats is designed to be an experience everyone can enjoy.
We believe food festivals are about more than just great eats – they’re about connection, celebration, and creating lasting memories for locals and visitors alike. With every event, our goal is to deliver a world-class experience that feels uniquely Kiwi.
OUR TEAM
BEN S
Ben is a passionate explorer at heart, always travelling the world in search of new experiences, cultures, and cuisines. With a career spanning over 15 years in the hospitality industry and more than 5 years in the market and events industry, he has organised and managed hundreds of successful events—ranging from boutique pop-ups to large-scale festivals—earning a reputation for precision, creativity, and reliability.
He is currently the Operations Manager overseeing the launch of Bites & Beats, bringing together food, music, and community into one unforgettable experience.
Outside of his professional expertise, Ben is a lover of good food, live music, and connecting with communities through memorable experiences. He is constantly looking for fresh ideas and global inspiration to bring back home and infuse into his projects.
Whether he’s coordinating complex vendor line-ups, flying halfway across the globe, or simply enjoying a street-side coffee in a new city, Ben approaches life with energy, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence.
MIKE M
Mike is a passionate enthusiast of cars, festivals, and the vibrant energy of street food culture. With 3 years of experience in event management, he has honed his skills in creating dynamic, community-driven experiences that bring people together through music, food, and entertainment.
As the Brand Manager of Bites & Beats, Mike plays a key role in shaping the identity and growth of the festival, ensuring every event reflects creativity, excitement, and authenticity.
Outside of his professional role, Mike is always on the lookout for inspiration—whether that’s exploring the latest street food scene, attending automotive shows, or immersing himself in the electric atmosphere of live events. His love of culture, community, and connection shines through in everything he does.