Type and press Enter.

The Barista Open

Te Tai Tokerau Regional Competition – 17th May 2026

The NZSCA Barista Open is coming to Te Tai Tokerau — and it’s your chance to step up, have a go, and be part of something special. This isn’t your traditional, high-pressure coffee competition. The Barista Open is designed to be fun, fast-paced, and accessible, with a head-to-head format that reflects real café service. Whether you’re new to competing or have been behind the machine for years, this is a welcoming space to challenge yourself, build confidence, and connect with others in the Northland coffee community.

We know that entering a competition can feel intimidating — so we’re working to remove as many barriers as possible. All equipment is provided, and we’re supporting competitors with workshops, guidance, and opportunities to see how it all works before the big day. The winner of the Te Tai Tokerau regional will receive a paid entry into the Meadow Fresh Aotearoa Barista Champs, along with support from NZSCA through a buddy programme — to help you prepare for the national stage.

If you’ve ever been curious about competing, this is the perfect place to start. Bring your skills, your personality, and your love of coffee — and give it a go.

Workshops

NZSCA ran an online workshop recently for those interested in finding out more about the competition. You can watch the recording of this here Barista Open Online Workshop