Ambassador Chef Programme
The Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chef Programme celebrates New Zealand’s top chefs who showcase the country’s premium grass-fed beef and lamb. These Ambassador Chefs highlight the authentic paddock-to-plate story, creating innovative dishes that demonstrate the flavour, quality, and versatility of New Zealand red meat. From rising culinary stars to lifetime “Platinum” chefs, the programme promotes sustainable farming, celebrates local produce, and inspires menus that showcase the best of New Zealand beef and lamb to diners and the food industry.
Meet the new Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chefs
For nearly 30 years, Beef + Lamb New Zealand has supported and recognised chefs who create exceptional beef and lamb dishes, offering a prestigious Ambassador Chef role that connects them with farmers and industry leaders who share a passion for New Zealand’s grass-fed beef and lamb. Today, the role goes beyond the restaurant, championing the beef and lamb story on menus while also empowering chefs to act as trusted voices for home cooks - sharing authentic, practical inspiration to help New Zealanders elevate everyday meals with grass-fed beef and lamb.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand are proud to introduce the three talented chefs who have been named as Ambassador Chefs for the 2026-2027 season.
Carlita Campbell
Cellar 495
Hastings
As head chef at Cellar 495, Carlita has found the perfect platform to showcase her approachable style of cooking, offering dishes that deliver a fresh and relaxed take on New Zealand flavours. Known for her creativity and genuine love of feeding people, Carlita has built a strong reputation within the region.
This marks Carlita’s first time as a Beef + Lamb Ambassador Chef - an achievement she has dreamed of since she was 15. Driven by her deep love for the industry and a passion for supporting the producers who sustain hospitality, she is excited to share her voice and ethos, championing the wider sector. She’s equally enthusiastic about bringing her chef expertise into Kiwi homes, inspiring everyday cooks to confidently use beef and lamb in their meals and helping make these ingredients a regular part of home cooking.
James Bratton
Moxie Restaurant
Auckland
James Bratton is a highly respected Auckland chef and the driving force behind Moxie, the neighbourhood bistro he has built and led alongside his wife for over a decade. With 25 years in the industry, he has developed a reputation for refined yet approachable cuisine that celebrates premium New Zealand produce.
He feels honoured and proud to be part of the beef and lamb story, viewing his Ambassador Chef role as an opportunity to deepen his understanding of the industry and the provenance of the produce he uses. In this role, he is passionate about making cooking more fun and approachable by breaking down barriers and sharing tips for home cooks, while staying true to a philosophy of letting quality ingredients shine, supported by bold, vibrant flavours.
Chetan Pangam
Bellbird Eatery
Wellington
Chef Chetan Pangam is the executive chef and owner of Bellbird Eatery in Lower Hutt and is undertaking his second term as an Ambassador Chef. With more than two decades of experience, he combines classical techniques with bold Indian heritage flavours and a deep respect for New Zealand’s grass-fed beef and lamb. Chetan describes himself as a storyteller, seeing food as part of a bigger narrative. He aims to give diners an authentic experience that connects them more deeply with where their food comes from.
He is looking forward to bringing this same storytelling into people’s kitchens, sharing his cooking in a way that helps others better appreciate the produce they work with. A passionate home cook, Chetan loves nothing more than gathering family and friends in his kitchen, creating a relaxed, social environment where people can learn by watching, doing and eating together.
Introducing our Platinum Ambassadors
Ten of New Zealand’s leading chefs have been recognised as lifetime Platinum Beef and Lamb Ambassador Chefs, celebrating their long-standing support of New Zealand’s grass-fed beef and lamb and their passion for sharing the paddock-to-plate story.
These chefs continue to work closely with Beef + Lamb New Zealand, championing New Zealand beef and lamb through events, menus and industry leadership across the country. Have a question for one of our Platinum Ambassador Chefs? Get in touch below.