In just a few days, Kiwis are being offered tasty new TV show Zumbo's Just Desserts.
It stars Australia's most celebrated patissier, Adriano Zumbo, who will be putting the country's most passionate dessert makers to the test.
"Viewers can look forward to watching some great home cooks really explore the creative world of dessert making," says Zumbo.
"I like to push boundaries and bring my imagination to life, which is reflected in the Zumbo Tests, you can look forward to some seriously awesome desserts."
Zumbo's Just Desserts puts 12 contestants to the test, tasking them with cooking to his special brief and theme.
Joining Zumbo, aka the 'Patissier of Pain', is his assistant Gigi Falanga, a Brazilian-born pastry chef and former model.
"It's a delightful show to watch. It's colourful and fun, the contestants have great personalities, each of them have their own skill in making pastries and Zumbo's creations are out of this planet," says Falanga.
"It showcases what the pastry industry is producing now and most importantly, shows you can't have fear while baking. Pastry is all about having fun and enjoying the moment, and not letting the pressure take control over your sweet creations."
Falanga is said to bring spice to the TV show, the winner of which receives AU$100,000 and have one of their creations featured in Zumbo's stores.
She moved to Australia in 2004 and is eager to spend time in New Zealand.
"I have many Kiwi friends in Australia and they're always showing me the beautiful landscape and amazing places I should drive and surf," she says.
"With my close friend living in Raglan, I am planning to go as soon as possible. I love peaceful places, I love the beach, the snow, the countryside - everything about New Zealand ticks all the boxes for a perfect holiday destination."
A look at Falanga's Instagram account reveals she's not shy to show off her enviable figure. So how does a dessert addict keep in such great shape?
"Trust me it is not easy! I have to train hard every day or as often as I can with my busy schedule," she says.
"I have to taste my cooking all the time, but the key is to just taste and that's it. Life sometimes gets in the way and it is OK to indulge every now and again, as long as it is not very often and I get back into my routine as soon as I can."
Zumbo's Just Desserts premieres on TV3 on Monday, November 14 at 7:30pm.
Newshub.
