The Italian Expedition
Our inaugural multi-day expedition, led by MasterChef judge Simon Gault, The Italian Expedition is an exclusive four-day escape at Ātaahua Estate, The Villa, where Italian luxury meets New Zealand’s finest people, produce, and plates.
You’ll hunt truffles, craft truffle-infused gin, take a pasta masterclass with a MasterChef, and enjoy an Italian long lunch with wine pairings curated by one of New Zealand’s top sommeliers. All hosted by Cuisine Magazine’s editor Kelli Brett.
Meet Your Chef
Simon Gault is revered as New Zealand’s godfather of Italian gastronomy - former MasterChef New Zealand judge, bestselling cookbook author and the driving force behind multiple award-winning restaurants.
On this expedition, he’ll share personal anecdotes from his years living in Italy, stories you won’t hear anywhere else, lead a private truffle hunt through Aotearoa’s finest truffle farms. Simon will then invite you into the kitchen to master nonna’s best recipes in an intimate pasta masterclass before savouring a leisurely long Italian lunch.
Welcome to Ātaahua Estate, The Villa
Hosted at Ātaahua Estate, The Villa, on the shores of the Bay of Plenty, the Italian Expedition immerses you in Italian-inspired luxury from the moment you arrive. Inside the grand villa, Venetian antiques sit alongside a state-of-the-art kitchen alongside a 75th anniversary limited edition Berkel 25 Volano B114s.
After sampling exceptional vintages in the private wine cellar, unwind in one of five stylish suites overlooking the gardens or ocean. Surrounded by lush grounds, a pool, and a tennis court, every element has been chosen by The Only Table to create an unforgettable culinary journey.
Meet Your Host
Kelli Brett, Editor and owner of Cuisine
As editor-at-large of Cuisine, Australasia’s most prestigious food, wine and dining title, Kelli has long championed the chefs, producers and places that define the very best of Aotearoa’s culinary landscape.
Kelli views the world through a highly focussed food and drink lens and brings unparalleled insight into what makes our food scene extraordinary.
Expedition Highlights
Here’s just a taster of the expedition highlights. For more information book a call with our culinary concierge or request our Private Expedition Guide 2025-2027
Heli-Truffle Hunt
Feel the earth under your fingers as you unearth the rare black Périgord truffle from our secret truffiere, then savour truffle-inspired treats for morning tea.
Pasta-Making Masterclass
Experience a hands-on pasta making class with our MasterChef Simon Gault. Learn the art of perfect dough, ready to feature in our signature long Italian lunch.
Oyster Shucking at the Source
Take to the skies for a scenic flight to New Zealand’s only Māori-owned oyster farm. Learn to shuck straight from the source and hear from the owners about how it all started.
Are you ready for a story no one else can tell?
Speak To Our Culinary Concierge
Considering an expedition with The Only Table?
Our culinary concierge is available to discuss availability, itinerary details, and personal preferences. Whether you’re planning from overseas or want to explore which table suits your taste, we’ll guide you through every step.
Follow The Only Table on Culinary Expeditions