We’ll be honest—there may be a few foggy heads in the studio today, especially after a night of celebrating another one of our local heroes going big on the global stage. Today, that hero is Bluff Distillery, who just earned the title of Best Gin in Australia—a feat that not only puts them on the map but reinforces what we already know: Southland is truly the home of exceptional food, drink, and creators.

Southland: The Perfect Environment for Excellence

This incredible win by Bluff Distillery is a stark reminder of the natural bounty that Southland offers. From its pristine waters to its fertile land, our region isn’t just a great place to live—it’s the perfect environment for harvesting, growing, hunting, and fishing some of the best food and drink New Zealand has to offer. Our unique climate and geography provide the ideal conditions for crafting world-class products that are now being celebrated across the globe.

Southland has long been the food basket of New Zealand. Our producers, creators, chefs, and artisans are known for their passion, innovation, and commitment to quality. From the famous Bluff oysters that grace tables far beyond our shores to the finest cuts of meat, seafood, exceptional dairy, and now award-winning gin, Southland continues to lead the way in food and beverage excellence.

Bluff Distillery's Victory: A Symbol of Our Strength

Bluff Distillery’s recent triumph (and seriously take it in—Australia’s best gin is a Kiwi, even better, a Bluffie) highlights the strength of our community of makers and creators, who not only dream big but deliver on those dreams with skill and determination. This win is not just about gin; it’s a celebration of everything Southland represents—hard work, creativity, and a deep connection to the land and sea.

Whether it’s our farmers, chefs, fishers, or distillers, Southland’s people are as diverse and dynamic as the landscape they work in. We craft everything with care, respect for nature, and a love for what we do. That passion is reflected in every sip, bite, or experience that comes out of our region.

A Shout-Out to Our Local Heroes

So here's a heartfelt shout-out to all of our amazing producers and creators—those who are putting Southland on the map one incredible product at a time. Bluff Distillery’s win is just the beginning. We are home to the best food, the best drink, and the best people. Let’s raise a glass of Bluff gin to our region and all it represents: excellence, passion, and innovation… and blooming good food (and drink).

The world is watching, and we’re just getting started. Cheers, Southland!