The Food Show 25_Mazda Post Show Report

2025 Post-Show Report

A partnership that drives excitement and engagement

We're absolutely thrilled to have partnered with Mazda once again as the exclusive vehicle sponsor for The Food Show 2025! In a world where consumers crave authenticity and innovation, Mazda's presence at The Food Show positions the brand at the heart of New Zealand's vibrant culinary scene.

Surging visitor numbers

A thriving platform for Mazda's spotlight

In a time of economic uncertainty, The Food Show 2025 defied expectations, drawing record crowds and solidifying its status as New Zealand's premier food and lifestyle event. Every single city saw impressive growth in attendance, underscoring the event's enduring appeal and the unmatched opportunity it provides for partners like Mazda to connect with a captive, high-intent audience.

This surge isn't just numbers, it's a testament to The Food Show's magnetic pull, offering Mazda prime access to thousands of potential customers in a fun, interactive environment where brand experiences shine.

Key visitor stats

The Food Show's attendees are a marketer's dream: discerning, active and ready to invest in quality.

By being at The Food Show, Mazda taps into a targeted demographic that's not just browsing but actively seeking upgrades, making every interaction a potential lead. Reasons for visiting

Sponsor recall

Skyrocketing awareness that translates to brand loyalty.

Mazda's strategic involvement paid off big time in brand recall, with massive gains in key markets. This isn't passive exposure, it's active mindshare that positions Mazda as the go-to for stylish, reliable transport among food lovers.

These jumps demonstrate the power of experiential marketing at The Food Show. Higher recall means stronger brand affinity, leading to increased consideration and purchases.

The Auckland Food Show

43% of visitors recalled Mazda as a sponsor 13% increase from last year

The Wellington Food Show

48%

48% recall rate, exploding increase! 220% increase from last year

The Christchurch Food Show

21% recall, with room for growth but still a solid result despite a 41% dip

The Mazda shuttle

A game-changer for convenience and brand love

The Mazda Shuttle service isn't an add-on, it was a hero feature that enhanced the entire event experience, directly boosting sponsor recall and creating glowing ambassadors for the brand. By solving real pain points like parking hassles and heavy hauls, Mazda positioned itself as thoughtful and customercentric, forging lasting positive associations.

There's a direct correlation: Events with shuttles saw higher recall rates, proving this initiative amplifies Mazda's impact. But the real sizzle? The heartfelt visitor testimonials that scream enthusiasm and loyalty.

It transforms riders into raving fans and potential customers.

The Auckland Food Show

Of those that used the shuttle, 66% said it added significant value to their visit.

The Wellington Food Show

%

A whopping 77% of users reported added value.

The Mazda shuttle

"Bloody awesome—have an appointment to test drive."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"The driver was nice and knew most of the questions about the car. It was a smooth drive and put us onto wanting one."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"I wouldn’t have been able to get the stuff to my car otherwise and this did result in me spending more."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Really appreciate such service when our car is parked far. Driver was very friendly and helpful and drove us right to our car."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Amazing! Extremely grateful as we had bought so much and it was heavy, and parked in Cornwall, we were extremely grateful to not have to carry it that far. The lady was really nice as well."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Very helpful service thank you. We had walked to the venue in the morning, but as it had turned very cold and windy when we were leaving, the shuttle was a very much appreciated service thank you—and the driver was friendly too."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Hope it's available next year."

Food Show Visitor 2025

Visitor feedback on the Mazda CX-80

Igniting desire and driving inquiries

Showcasing the stunning Mazda CX-80 wasn't just a stand; it was a conversation starter that left visitors dreaming of ownership. The feedback? Overwhelmingly positive, with comments revealing genuine excitement and intent to buy. This direct engagement is why The Food Show is vital for Mazda - it turns static ads into tactile, aspirational experiences that accelerate the sales funnel.

These aren't just compliments, they're leads in the making, showcasing how The Food Show fosters emotional connections that drive dealership visits.

"Stunning—would look better up my driveway lol."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Amazing—I even enquired about the price."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Very flash with updated features in comparison to my CX-5 2016. I like the extra seating option for when taking more passengers and that it comes as a hybrid that would tow the caravan without any issues. Has a large boot space for my lifestyle when the extra seats aren't in use."

Food Show Visitor 2025

"Had a good look at it and loved it!" "Lovely car. Would consider as an upgrade to our current Mazda when time is right."

Food Show Visitor 2025

Mazda branding & reach

Amplified exposure across channels

Mazda's partnership unlocked multi-channel marketing, from billboards to social buzz, ensuring the brand was everywhere our foodies looked. This extensive reach isn't just impressions, it's targeted amplification that builds buzz and credibility in a competitive market.

Website Impact

Mazda-specific pages

1,932 page views

1,602 active users (up 51%)

E-Newsletters

Featured in 5 targeted emails to our dedicated foodie database:

Total delivered: 108,184 (up 12%).

Total opens: 18,311 (32% average open rate).

Social Media Surge

Our ramped-up content strategy delivered explosive growth:

Facebook & Instagram Reach: 54,049 impressions, fuelled by organic shares and influencer partnerships. This viral momentum highlights The Food Show's social power, extending Mazda's message far beyond the event halls.

Advertising & PR Footprint

Mazda's logo graced billboards, posters, radio ads, promotions, press releases, magazine features, and more—ensuring omnipresence and prestige.

We look forward to working with you again in 2026!

The Food Show isn't just an event; it's a launchpad for Mazda to connect authentically with New Zealand's food-loving families, driving recall, inquiries and loyalty like no other platform. With proven growth, enthusiastic feedback and massive reach, this partnership delivers tangible value, elevating Mazda from a sponsor to a star. Let's build on this momentum for 2026 and beyond!