KEY POINTS:
The All Blacks are expected to cook up a storm on the field at the Rugby World Cup - and now they're feeling the heat to do the same in the kitchen.
As part of a government programme to push New Zealand internationally, Kiwi chef Peta Mathias will teach a class entitled Cooking with the All Blacks in Marseille this week.
International food and beverage media are expected to attend the class, which will feature New Zealand lamb, venison and wine, and include guest appearances by team members.
Economic Development Minister Trevor Mallard said the All Blacks' presence in Marseille was an ideal way to promote the country.
"The food and beverage sector contributes around half our GDP and Europe is a key market, so this is an ideal way to get key media and buyers to taste the New Zealand difference," he said.
As well as the promotion of New Zealand food and beverages, a taste of Kiwi culture will be on the menu with street workshops of poi, haka, and waiata being run by a performing arts company.
The focus of the New Zealand promotion programme will shift to a ball-shaped venue near the Eiffel Tower in Paris on October 5.
- NZPA
