Here at Denizen, we consider ourselves pretty au fait with most things in both the gastronomic and wellness realms. We’re switched on when it comes to new products beneficial to our health, and our ability to remain abreast of culinary trends is — if we say so ourselves — quite unparalleled. Recently, however, we’ve found someone who’s knowledge extends far beyond our own — particularly in one area that, as it turns out, we don’t know nearly as much about as we thought. Meet Chiwako Hoshina: the founder of Nippon Tea and New Zealand’s only Certified Japanese Tea Advisor (think a Sommelier for tea). Hoshina will be hosting an event at MASU by Nic Watt dedicated solely to educating the masses on all things tea. And despite the warming drink being touted as the ultimate panacea by the Western world for some time now, there’s still have a lot to be educated on.

For one afternoon only, on Saturday 23rd March, the connoisseur will be joining forces with the SKYCITY restaurant to inform guests about high-quality Japanese Tea and the plethora of advantages it boasts for our health and wellbeing. Adhering to the ‘learning-by-doing’ approach, Japanese Tea 101 will encourage guests to sip their way through a conveyor belt of tea varieties, from the trusty green to the unlikely cold brew. What’s more, MASU will be whipping up platters laden with their delectable desserts to truly round off the experience, creating an exceptional (and educational) afternoon tea that — for just $59 per person — you really won’t want to miss. Word of warning though, places are limited so we suggest you reserve your seat pronto.

Japanese Tea 101 will take place on Saturday 23 March, 3pm-5:30pm, to book email here or call 09 363 6278.