ABOUT
Kia Ora
Kia Ora means "Hello" in the native language of New Zealand, Maori. Welcome to a slice of New Zealand.
You must be wondering how a Canadian girl from Toronto started a New Zealand pie company in Peterborough, Ontario. In 2008, I found myself in Jasper, Alberta, on a college work internship; there, I met some fantastic people who inspired me to explore more of the world. Some of my closest friends from that time were Kiwis, and when they decided to head back to New Zealand, I couldn't resist the opportunity to join them.
So, off I went to New Zealand I went! I embarked on a three-month road trip in Sir Reginald, a retrofitted work-to-camper van. The adventures were endless - from sand surfing on 90 Mile Beach on the tip of the North Island to glacier hikes in the South Island and the unforgettable Rhythm and Vines music festivals. But what truly stole my heart were the down-to-earth locals and, of course, the local favourite that fuelled me through it all - meat pies.
In 2021, I was living and working in Peterborough, and even though I’d been back in Canada for over a decade, I’d often find myself reminiscing on my time in New Zealand. This particular time my reminiscing took me to the kitchen and hours later I was devouring a gooey Mince and Cheese pie. I decided then that people really needed to try these pies, and that is how Kia Ora Pie Co. was born.
Kia Ora Pie Co. would remain just a dream until early 2021 when I found myself with an abundance of time on my hands that needed filling (lockdown number five??). So, with some help from my parents and a relatively new boyfriend, honestly, I couldn't have done it without them, Kia Ora Pie Co officially launched on February 8th, 2021, at the Peterborough Farmers Market.
I know you’re curious, but Jon is no longer a “relatively new boyfriend” he has been upgraded to “the best boyfriend”.
My culinary journey spans over 15 years, encompassing recipe development, food styling, research and development, and restaurant experiences.
With honors in Culinary Management - Nutrition from George Brown College and a Red Seal Chef, I've been running my own business for over 3 years, and hopefully many more to come.
Our pies are crafted with an all-butter, flaky pastry enveloping hearty, meat-packed fillings bursting with authentic flavours inspired by New Zealand. High-quality ingredients, less gravy, and fillers than traditional North American pies ensure a unique and satisfying experience. Easy to reheat at home or on the go, our pies offer the comfort of a home-cooked meal wherever life takes you.
When I'm not in the kitchen, you'll find me spending time with my animals and partner, curled up with a good book, or enjoying backcountry camping and axe throwing.
Nature and a good book rejuvenate me, bringing creativity and passion back into the kitchen.
At our home, we often have foster animals, and supporting our local animal shelter is a cause close to our hearts. After all, our furry friends mean the world to us, and helping them find their forever home is a small way we can repay them for their unconditional love.
A few things about me…
-
enough said.
-
I moved 8 times in 2 years, 4 of these were provincial moves. Though growing up in Toronto, Halifax has been my favourite place to call home.
-
At 27 I started playing tackle football and rugby, but I run like Phoebe from Friends, so that was fun.
-
WALTER (Canine) the airedale terrier whose bark demands fear but is afraid of everything from the smallest of Amazon packages to the measuring tape. Why? honestly, we have no idea. His hobbies include whining until he gets what he wants, backcountry canoe trips, camouflaging himself in the backyard and refusing to come when called. Once to the point where his mum was convinced he got out and was lost ... .what a jerk.
DALLAS (Feline) is the black cat who must have been an escape artist in the past. His hobbies include meowing at 5am, breaking out of the house to chill with his canine friends and trying to beat up any other cat in a 1km radius. Sadly, his brutish ways have gotten him banished to the grandparents for some self-reflection. No self-reflection has been done to date.
MILO (Feline) the Siamese rescue barn cat who is as baffled by his origin story as his mum and dad. His hobbies include staring at you with his tongue out, not knowing how to retract his claws, growling at Walter, sleeping on your hip and holding on for dear life if you try to move. By far the most chill and cuddly of our roommates, what a good boy.
“Best. Savoury. Pies. I’ve. Ever. Had. Full stop bar none.”