Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch 2026
A record level of generosity helped lift this year’s Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch well beyond previous fundraising efforts, with close to $7000 raised for Kids in Need.
Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch Master of Ceremonies Camille Guzzwell gets the afternoon underway in the Town Hall with guests seated behind her. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch Master of Ceremonies Camille Guzzwell gets the afternoon underway in the Town Hall with guests seated behind her. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
More than 100 guests gathered at Cambridge Town Hall on Friday for the lunch on an afternoon that delivered far more than fine food.
The five-course dining experience brought together business leaders, sponsors and community members around four long tables, continuing a popular event that alternates each year with the Waipā Business Awards.
Adding to the atmosphere before the meal, the Cambridge High School Premier Jazz Band entertained guests, led by vocalist Caitlin Lewis, a young singer who has gained recognition through the National Youth Jazz Competition.
Gourmet Delicious caterers served five courses throughout the afternoon at the Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch. Before the first course, from left are Kim Moodie, Zoe McAllister, Lynda Davis, Clare Dysart, Pieta Wright and Greer Coghlan. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Guests would likely have welcomed the group playing throughout the afternoon, but teacher Lisa Norman said several band members had to return to school to sit a calculus exam.
This year’s Long Lunch, supported by Cambridge Real Estate and the Cambridge Business Chamber, focused on connection as much as cuisine. Guests sampled a seasonal menu while sharing conversation and building relationships in a relaxed midwinter setting.
The auction again proved a highlight, boosted by a significant on-the-day donation from chamber partner Ian Grant of Aircon Group Waikato.
The Cambridge High School jazz band provided entertainment before the Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch. From left, Hunter Davis (guitar), Theo Goodwin (bass), Caitlin Lewis (vocals), Jed Smith (drums) and Vivien Pettit (saxophone). Photo: Mary Anne Gill
The Cambridge High School jazz band provided entertainment before the Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch. From left, Caitlin Lewis (vocals) and Jed Smith (drums). Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Grant contributed a Daikin air conditioning unit valued at $3000, which drew strong bidding before being won by accountant Shelley Tweedy.
Chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid said the event had become a highlight on the local calendar because of the way it brings people together.
“The Long Lunch is about creating space for meaningful connection. People step away from their desks, sit beside someone new and have time to talk. That is where relationships begin and grow,” Bouzaid said.
While fundraising is part of the day, Bouzaid said the true value goes deeper than the final dollar figure.
Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch Master of Ceremonies Camille Guzzwell shows Liz Grant, Jo Gordon and Julie Epps how the open-air photo booth works. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
“There is always generosity in the room, especially when we have strong auction items and guests who are willing to support the cause,” she said.
“But the real return is in the relationships built, the visibility for our sponsors and the sense of goodwill across the community.”
Past events have supported organisations through raffles and auctions. The 2024 event raised $2500 for Cambridge Lifeskills, while $1445 was raised for Waikato Hospice in 2022.
Bouzaid said those outcomes reflected both the quality of what was on offer and the willingness of guests to give.
“Fundraising depends heavily on what is donated and the generosity on the day. We are fortunate in Cambridge to have both,” she said.
The Long Lunch continues to grow in popularity as a more intimate alternative to larger networking events, with its emphasis on shared experience.
From carefully prepared dishes provided by local caterer Gourmet Delicious to thoughtful table settings, the afternoon created an atmosphere where business conversations flowed as easily as the food and wine.
As guests lingered at the end of the meal, the lasting impression was clear. The Long Lunch is as much about strengthening a community as it is about enjoying a good meal together.
Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch 2026. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Cambridge Chamber Long Lunch 2026. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
