How to build the ultimate cheeseboard for effortless entertaining with Kāpiti
Every great night starts with a board. A cheeseboard, that is—a curated moment of delight that shows thought and care without feeling fussy. With a few of our Kāpiti favourites and thoughtful styling, you can turn any midweek pre-party or weekend get-together into something that feels instantly polished.
The Golden Rule: Variety, Not Volume
The key is variety, not volume. Three or four contrasting cheeses will do all the work. Start with Kahikatea Camembert, soft and delicate, which shines with a crisp Pinot Gris or the salty crunch of pork crackling. Add a touch of indulgence with Kikorangi Triple Cream Blue—lush, velvety, and perfect with a peppery Syrah or a swipe of caramelised white chocolate. For bite, bring in Pakari Aged Cheddar, sharp and tangy, which pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Vintage Port, alongside a slice of fruit cake. Finally, Kānuka Smoked Havarti adds buttery smoothness with a hint of smoke, made for boysenberries or a light Pinot Noir.
Styling for Effortless Impact
It’s tempting to overdo it, but sometimes simpler styling makes the biggest impression: place the cheeses first, then fill the gaps with figs, roasted grapes, shards of dark chocolate, and a mix of seeded crackers or thin slices of sourdough. Serve at room temperature to let the flavours sing.
Perfect Pairings
Kikorangi Triple Cream Blue → Peppery Syrah or NZ Rosé
Kahikatea Camembert → Pinot Gris
Pakari Aged Cheddar → Cabernet Sauvignon or Vintage Port
Kānuka Smoked Havarti → Light Pinot Noir
Kakato Cumin Gouda → Aromatic Gewürztraminer or off-dry Riesling
And that’s all it takes for a cheeseboard stacked with award-winning cheeses, styled with care, that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and lets you focus on savouring the night.
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