4 days ago
Entertainment Group Comes Home To The Land Of The Long White Cloud — A Place Of Food, Wine & Legacy
AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 15 August 2025 - The Entertainment Group - the pre-eminent platform that helps Australians gain access to thousands of amazing offers, including access to some of the most prestigious dining experiences - today announced its return to New Zealand.
The move to return to New Zealand underscores Entertainment Group's meaningful relationship with the Southern Hemisphere's culinary jewel. This new chapter marks a significant moment in the company's enduring legacy of supporting restaurants, communities, and charitable organisations across multiple markets including Australia and Bali - including a renewed focus on fundraising and community partnerships within New Zealand. It reflects the group's deep respect for the producers, chefs, winemakers, and food-lovers who have helped define New Zealand as one of the world's premier food and wine destinations, and its long-standing belief in using food as a force for connection, community, and positive impact.
To mark the occasion, Entertainment is hosting an intimate lunch at Baduzzi - one of Auckland's most acclaimed restaurants, known for its Italian spirit and deep respect for New Zealand produce. The menu will spotlight the country's finest ingredients, with standout dishes such as Karitane crayfish meatballs and 11 days dry aged South Island grass fed scotch fillet each reflecting the richness of the local regions. Paired with exceptional wines from across Italy, the afternoon will pay homage to the craftsmanship and culinary innovation that make Aotearoa one of the world's most lauded food destinations.
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The soiree follows on from a fundraiser launch event in New Zealand last month where over 60 fundraising and charitable organisations including KidsCan, Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House Charities NZ were invited to Auckland's ASB Waterfront Theatre to meet with Entertainment staff to celebrate and discuss ways that the business can support these community organisations in their fundraising endeavours.
'Entertainment is back in Aotearoa with a clear mission - to champion the local food scene, support our partners, and deliver unforgettable experiences to our members,' said Heidi Halson, CEO of Entertainment Group. 'We are excited to be able to reconnect with the people and places that make New Zealand a true culinary destination, while continuing to give back through grassroots fundraising.'
For over 30 years, Entertainment has helped drive real customers through Restaurants' doors while also supporting causes we all care about,' said Michael Dearth, owner of Baduzzi. 'After more than 10 years since we first commenced our relationship, we are still partnering with Entertainment Group because not only are they as passionate about hospitality as we are, they have an unwavering commitment to some of NZ's most important community organisations that are giving back in a meaningful way.'
Entertainment made its first foray into New Zealand in 1999 and has 1500 merchant partners and more than 25 years in the market with a focus on including dining, experiences, retail and travel. Entertainment memberships give food lovers the chance to experience some of New Zealand's most beloved establishments. Dining highlights on the Entertainment platform across New Zealand include finedining and casual standouts like Baduzzi, The French Cafe, Regatta, Kol, Crab Shack, Shed5, Pravda, Boulcott Street Bistro Chillingworth Road - each celebrated for their distinctive flavours, superb service and unwavering commitment to local produce.
Bringing together more than 15,000 merchants and raising $112 million for not-for-profit fundraising partners since its inception, the Entertainment Group (formerly known as the Entertainment Book) has been helping Australians and New Zealanders to live their lives to the fullest while providing vital contributions to organisations in need.
About The Entertainment Group
Entertainment Group is a leading provider of exclusive offers and experiences, connecting members with the best in dining, travel, retail, and leisure. With a rich history of supporting local businesses and charities, our digital membership platform offers unbeatable savings on restaurants, attractions, hotels, and everyday essentials.
For over 30 years, Entertainment has helped millions of Australians and New Zealanders discover and enjoy premium experiences while giving back to the community. Through partnerships with thousands of merchants and fundraising organisations, Entertainment Group continues to deliver value and create meaningful connections.
About The Entertainment Group Fundraising
Fundraising is at the heart of what The Entertainment Group does and the business is motivated by the opportunity to help its fundraising partners make a difference. Bringing together more than over 15,000 merchants and raising $110 million for not-for-profit fundraising partners since its inception, the Entertainment Group (formerly known as the Entertainment Book) has been helping Australians to live their lives to the fullest while providing vital contributions to organisations in need.
Up to 20% of a Membership sale goes directly to a Fundraiser chosen by the Member, which has been a key source of fundraising revenue for many Fundraisers over the years including primary and high schools, sports clubs, and community groups alike. With fundraising in the digital world, Entertainment can help introduce Fundraisers to a connected community and raise much-needed funds.
