Air New Zealand is putting out a call for Kiwis to help the airline finalise its next line-up of inflight snack offerings.
Earlier this year the national carrier launched the 'Great Kiwi Snack Off', calling it "a nationwide hunt to find new onboard snacks". That triggered hundreds of submissions including several Aotearoa-themed items like hangi pies, pavlova bites and L&P gummies.
Now, Air NZ will select five members of the public to help it determine the selection of snacks that will make the final cut.
The blind tasting will be conducted at the airline's head office in Auckland and the 'snacksperts' can be of any age, children or adult, Air NZ said. The chosen five will then be asked to give their honest feedback on the offerings, including taste and texture.
The shortlist of finalists come from 30 suppliers, which the airline said it whittled down from more than 400.
Air NZ's chief customer and sales officer Leanne Geraghty said the process has made it "really clear Kiwis are passionate about snacks".
"So why not give a few of the country's most enthusiastic foodies a chance to be snacksperts and have their say on what we serve on-board?" she added.
Hosting a 'blind taste-test' with AM hosts Ryan Bridge and Laura Tupou on Tuesday, Geraghty said the snacks will be available across the airline's network, including domestic, international, and short-haul.
So, what makes a good 'snackspert'? "Someone who's really into their food," Geraghty told AM.
"Someone that loves to try unusual flavours and textures, we can't have any fussy eaters. People who are happy to give their honest and candid feedback."
Those with dietary requirements won't be left out, she added, noting that the airline is aiming to have gluten-free, dairy-free and low-sugar options.
"The lollies are staying, our Koru Hour cheese and crackers are staying, along with the ratio we currently have."
Applications to become a 'snackspert' close on Friday. Those interested can find more information on Air NZ's website.
Watch the video above.
