The Great Kiwi Bake Off is back! This season not only are there 10 fresh faces competing for the title, but there is also an all-new judging panel. Kiwi chef and renowned restaurateur Peter Gordon will put the home bakers through their paces alongside international phenomenon Jordan “The Caker” Rondel.
“One of the many joys of the show is seeing the emerging talent of the bakers,” tells Peter.
While Jordan admits, “I’m beyond excited to be around people baking all day. It’s all pretty magical really!”
Pax Assadi joins Hayley Sproull as presenters, and the comedian says he can’t wait to taste the creations.
“I don’t know how to bake, but I’m in absolute awe of people who have the skills. Also, I love to eat the baking!”
Brooke Walker
28, Auckland
For marketing coordinator Brooke, being judged on her baking skills is something she is familiar with. “My family is known for judging baking out of 10. My nana is brutally honest.” Brooke, who lives with her fiancé Nick and their pup Richie, adds she doesn’t really like cake. “I wasn’t going to have a wedding cake, however, I’ve finally given in.”
Francesca Boyle
27, Wellington
She’s been baking since she was a child, learning all her grandmother’s tips and tricks, but former ballerina Francesca says there is no creation of hers that will top a 21st cake she made for one of her best friends. “In 2005, I was at the peak of my creativity. I was so proud of the pink ombre icing and the chocolate crown.”
Jonathon Willows
53, Auckland
Sales manager Jonathon says it was NZ’s first lockdown in 2020 that reignited his passion for baking. “My daughter and I worked from home, and I started baking so we could have fresh bread and cakes every day,” tells the Brit, who shares daughter Mollie, 16, with wife Michelle. “One day, she said, ‘You should go on Bake Off!’ And the rest is history.”
Hugo Bussell
28, Wellington
Baking has been a lifelong passion for public servant Hugo, who says he learned everything he knows in the kitchen from his mum Susan. “It all started with hanging around the kitchen and taking an interest in my parents’ cooking. I have lots of happy memories baking with my mum. I think the first thing I ever baked was jam tarts.”
Monique Harris
35, Pahiatua
Art teacher Monique, who lives on a dairy farm with her husband Jamie, is looking forward to being surrounded by fellow cake creators. “I just wanted to be inspired by other bakers. I can’t wait to be around their creative energy. I’m the only person who really bakes in my friend circle, so there’s nothing to inspire me.”
Victoria Hume
27, Wellington
Though she’s only new to baking, public servant Victoria has tasted success after making it to the final of the Wellington on a Plate burger competition. But that doesn’t mean she’s above the nerves that come in the Bake Off kitchen. “I’m not sure I’ll be able to finish on time! I’m pretty slow and take my sweet time decorating.”
Lucas Neal
27, Wellington
Hailing from a long line of sweet-treat masters, it seems theatre set designer Lucas was destined to become a baker. “My grandmother was a professional cake maker and when I was little, I spent a lot of time watching her make elaborate wedding and anniversary cakes. And my great-grandfather owned a chocolate factory, so sugar is in my veins.”
Kee-Hee Lee
30, Auckland
What started as a new challenge has developed into a passion for piano teacher Kee-Hee. She says the joy of making something unique for a loved one is what inspires her. “I love seeing the happiness I can bring to the table. It’s very rewarding to see my family and friends feel special when I make something meaningful for them.”
Katrina Keenan
51, Christchurch
She’s a World Cup-winning cricketer, but now Katrina’s ready to show her skills in the kitchen. Though she admits she’s not the most technical baker, the sportswoman, who shares daughters Emily, 18, and Macy, 16, with husband Grant, says she signed up to hone her skills. “There are definitely aspects of baking I lack experience around but I’m up for the challenge!”
Nikita Day
27, Christchurch
Being a lawyer is a high-stress job, so for Nikita, the kitchen is the best way to unwind. “It’s relaxing and at the end of it, you have something to share with those you care about.” When she’s not baking, she plays video games and knits.
The Great Kiwi Bake Off returns Thursday, August 25 at 7.30pm on TVNZ 1
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