More than 450 votes have been cast in a community competition celebrating Ōpōtiki's favourite places to eat and drink, with six local businesses earning bragging rights for the immediate future.

Organised by Ōpōtiki isite, the 2026 Ōpōtiki's Favourites contest invited locals to vote across six categories, recognising the cafés, takeaway outlets and food businesses that help keep the community fed.

Experience and engagement co-ordinator Iranui Huriwai said the idea began with a conversation about the general election.

“This all started when us isite staff were chatting about the general election and voting.

“We thought, if everyone is talking about voting, why not vote for something fun?

“Food was the obvious choice.

“What started as a simple idea quickly snowballed into a celebration of Ōpōtiki's favourite foods.”

The response exceeded expectations, with more than 300 votes submitted online and a further 150 paper votes collected before voting closed on October 13.

The results saw Bridge Street Cafe take out two titles, winning both Best Coffee and the overall Best Food in Town category.

The Old Bakehouse claimed Best Pie, while Ocean Seafoods was another double winner, taking out Best Burger and Best Fish and Chips.

Tirohanga Beach Store was voted Best Ice-Cream.

Huriwai said the aim was to encourage people to explore local eateries, support local businesses and have their say, rather than heavily promote the election itself.

“It was fantastic to see so many people getting behind their favourite local food spots, and the response exceeded our expectations.

“We can't wait to do it all again next year.”

The competition also included a prize draw for those who took part, with Shaniah Tai named as the lucky winner of a voucher to enjoy some of the local food businesses recognised in the competition.

And while the winning businesses have plenty to celebrate, Huriwai hinted the i-site team may have their own ambitions when the competition returns.

“If there's one thing we've learned, it's that the competition was fierce, so the Ōpōtiki isite team will be campaigning hard for the Best Ice Cream title next time around."