In a proud and historic moment for the Pacific, Best South Pacific Book in the World, a cookbook born from the heart of the region, has been awarded Best Celebrity Chef Cookbook at the 2024 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in Lisbon, Portugal.

The award is a monumental achievement not just for the book’s creators but for the entire Pacific region, a celebration of its rich culture, resilient people, and powerful food traditions.

Edited by renowned chef and food advocate Robert Oliver, Best South Pacific Book in the World features 139 healthy, vibrant recipes inspired by the Pacific Island Food Revolution TV series. It brings together flavours from across the islands,  from Samoa and Fiji to Tuvalu and Tahiti,  turning everyday ingredients into a celebration of identity, community, and heritage.

“This is an honour for the Pacific and its food culture to be recognised on the world stage. This cookbook is not just about food; it’s about health, climate, biodiversity, and food economies. But most of all, it is identity, culture, and a delicious reminder of the beauty of Pacific culture and its people. The story of the food is the story of the people, and in the Pacific, your culture is your cure,” said Mr Oliver

Published by Massey University Press, the cookbook is the result of deep regional collaboration, with contributions from Pacific communities, leaders, and global allies. It reflects a united vision to honour the wisdom of traditional food systems and empower local solutions to modern challenges like climate change and food insecurity.

The Gourmand jury praised Oliver’s work as “a brilliant tribute to the Pacific’s culinary heritage,” noting how Best South Pacific Book in the World champions food sovereignty, sustainability, and hope for a healthier future.

More than an award, this recognition is a powerful reminder of the Pacific’s voice on the global stage and how its traditions, stories, and values can inspire the world.

“This award is a tribute to the people of the Pacific. The cookbook is a love letter to the islands, the kitchens, the families, and the future of the region,” said Mr. Oliver.