New Zealand’s National Butchery Team, the Hellers Sharp Blacks, will compete on the world stage later this month. The eight-member team, consisting of Riki Kerekere, Reuben Sharples, Luka Young, Dan Klink, Cherise Redden, Corey White, Samantha Weller, and Brydon Heller, will represent New Zealand at the World Butchers’ Challenge in Paris.

The international competition brings together butchers from 14 countries to showcase their skills in areas such as meat preparation, presentation, and efficiency. Participants are judged on product displays, yield management, waste reduction, cookability, salability, hygiene, and teamwork.

Dan Klink in his Mangawhai Meat Shop.

Mangawhai butcher Dan Klink has worked in the industry for over 20 years. Initially pursuing a career as a chef, he discovered a passion for butchery, which led to opportunities abroad in London and Melbourne, where he refined his expertise. Around 13 years ago, he returned to Mangawhai to take over Mangawhai Meat Shop, the same butchery where he had completed his apprenticeship.

This marks Klink’s second time representing New Zealand, having previously competed with the team in Sacramento in 2022, where they secured a bronze medal. The current team remains unchanged from the previous competition, allowing them to build on their collective experience and strengths. Klink specialises in sausage-making, a skill he has honed over the years, making it a standout element of his contributions.

Beyond the competition, the event serves as a platform to highlight the butchery profession and attract newcomers to the trade. Butchery is often associated with its more traditional, labour-intensive aspects, but this event brings attention to the craftsmanship and artistry involved in the profession.

The Hellers Sharp Blacks have been preparing extensively for the event, with training sessions focused on refining techniques and strengthening teamwork. The World Butchers’ Challenge is scheduled to take place on 31 March in Paris, where the team will compete against some of the best butchers in the world.

Klink has already arrived in Paris and is settling in ahead of the competition. The team is making final preparations as they get ready to take on challengers from around the globe.