The region’s favourite winter burger battle returns 15 June – 12 July 2026, with a massive lineup of local venues and the launch of the Burger Passport

The buns are toasted, the patties are prepped, and the region is ready. Burger Nelson Tasman — the winter burger battle that had Nelson Tasman eating, voting, and talking all season long — is officially back for 2026, running from 15 June to 12 July.

This year’s competition is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. Building on last year’s runaway success, which saw more than 20 venues go head-to-head and The Smoking Barrel claim the crown with their legendary Buldak Fried Chicken Noodle Burger, Burger Nelson Tasman 2026 brings back returning champions, welcomes bold new challengers, and raises the bar on what a region-wide culinary event can be.

Meet the 2026 Burger Lineup

From smash patties stacked high to boundary-pushing flavour experiments, this year’s lineup showcases the full breadth of Nelson Tasman’s hospitality scene. Venues across the region — from Nelson City to Richmond, Motueka and Pohara — are serving up their burger and burger inspired creations. Whether you’re a regular or discovering a spot for the first time, it’s the perfect excuse to get out and eat local.

View the line up here: burgernelsontasman.nz/burgers

Introducing the Burger Passport

New for 2026: the Burger Nelson Tasman Passport — your official guide to eating your way around the region. Every burger you try earns you a sticker, and collect six stickers to go in the draw to win a trip for two to Wellington. The more you eat, the more you explore — and the better your chances of taking home the ultimate prize.

Pick up your passport at any participating venue during the campaign.

How It Works

Burger lovers visit participating venues, try their competition burgers, and vote for their favourites at burgernelsontasman.nz/vote. Votes from the public determine the winner, with the Burger Nelson Tasman Champion crowned at the end of the campaign.

Get Involved

Eat: Work your way through the lineup — try one, try them all.
Vote: Cast your vote at burgernelsontasman.nz/vote and help crown a champion.
Share: Tag your burger adventures with #BurgerNelsonTasman for a chance to feature on our channels.

Burger Nelson Tasman 2026 runs 15 June – 12 July. For the full venue and burger lineup, passport details, and voting, visit burgernelsontasman.nz.

Click here to find out more…

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