Singer Gary Barlow's latest television venture, "Gary Barlow's Food and Wine Tour," takes viewers to New Zealand, where he is joined by comedian and friend Jason Manford. The series, which has previously featured South Africa and Australia, highlights New Zealand's wine regions and culinary offerings.
Barlow, who grew up 30 miles apart from Manford in the North West of England, described the trip as an incredible experience. He noted that Manford, initially unfamiliar with wine, was encouraged to learn alongside the audience. "That's what we want. We don't want professionals, we want people to learn while the audience watches," Barlow stated.
The duo spent a fortnight exploring both the North and South Islands, visiting locations such as Auckland, Queenstown, Central Otago, Marlborough Sounds, and Hawke's Bay. Barlow was particularly struck by the country's expansive scenery, describing "big skies, beautiful mountains and amazing coastlines" and urged viewers to add New Zealand to their travel lists.
A highlight for Barlow was the 3.5-hour ferry journey from Picton on the South Island to Wellington on the North Island, crossing the Cook Strait. The trip also included adventurous activities such as a zip-line descent into the Man O’ War winery on Waiheke Island and a jet boat ride on the Shotover River. The pair also hiked in Central Otago and observed dolphins along the Kaikoura coast while traveling on the Coastal Pacific railway.
Their travels also involved a drive in a vintage car through Napier and a ride on a tandem bicycle. Barlow commented on their unexpected synchronicity, which amused the film crew.
New Zealand's culinary scene was also a focus. The duo sampled local dishes including paua (sea snails), wild venison with beetroot and figs, whitebait fritters, green-lipped mussels, Cloudy Bay clams, and a traditional Kiwi meat pie. Barlow expressed that New Zealand's food deserves greater recognition, calling it "sensational."
Manford also had an opportunity for an impromptu stand-up comedy set in Christchurch. Barlow observed that New Zealanders share a similar dry sense of humor with the British.
The series delves into wine tasting, featuring bold reds at the family-run Craggy Range winery in Hawke's Bay. At chef Ben Bayly's Michelin-starred restaurant Ahi in Auckland, Barlow experienced the local cuisine.
Looking ahead, Barlow mentioned potential future travel destinations for the show, including California and Greece.
"Gary Barlow's Food and Wine Tour: New Zealand" airs on ITV1.