Scott joined the mains team for the evening, working directly with celebrated chef Peter Gordon to prepare dishes worthy of the occasion. Together, teams crafted a four-course meal for more than 200 Mission guests — an effort that combined culinary skill, teamwork, and a shared commitment to giving back.
In the Kitchen with the Best
The Auckland City Mission Cook-Off is no ordinary dinner service. It brings together business leaders from across Aotearoa, pairs them with some of the country’s finest chefs, and tasks them with preparing a restaurant-quality meal under real kitchen conditions — all to raise critical funds for the Mission’s work supporting Aucklanders in need.
For Scott, it was an opportunity to represent Alsco Fresh & Clean in a very different kind of environment. Swapping the day-to-day operations of washroom and hygiene services for the heat of a professional kitchen, he worked alongside Peter Gordon and the mains team to deliver dishes that did justice to the occasion.
Together, teams prepared a four-course meal for more than 200 Mission guests. The Cook-Off has now raised over $412,000, helping to provide more than 25,000 meals this winter.
The Cook-Off has become a cornerstone event on the Auckland City Mission calendar, and each year the generosity of participants, sponsors, and donors grows. The $412,000 raised this year will directly fund meals, support services, and essential care for Aucklanders experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, and hardship through the coldest months.
Behind Every Great Meal
While Scott handled the cooking, Alsco also played a supporting role behind the scenes. We were proud to supply the tea towels and chefswear for the night — a small contribution, perhaps, but one that reflects what we do every day: equipping businesses and community organisations with the essentials they need to operate safely, cleanly, and professionally.
Watch the News Coverage
Catch Scott and the Team in Action
Newshub covered the Cook-Off on the night. Watch the full news segment on Facebook and see the kitchen come to life.
Watch on FacebookA Commitment That Runs Deep
Our involvement with the Auckland City Mission Cook-Off is part of a broader commitment to community that sits at the heart of Alsco Uniforms New Zealand. Whether it’s lacing up for Round the Bays, supporting local charities, or showing up at events like this one, giving back is woven into who we are.
Our Community Promise
Alsco Uniforms has set a goal to invest $4 million dollars back into our people and our communities by 2030. Events like the Cook-Off are a tangible expression of that commitment — showing up, getting involved, and doing our part.
Because a business is only as strong as the community it serves. And in Tāmaki Makaurau, that community is whānau.
To Scott Bason, for stepping up and representing Fresh & Clean with pride — ka pai. To Peter Gordon and the chef team, for guiding the evening with skill and warmth. And to the Auckland City Mission, for the tireless work you do every day to care for those who need it most.
Here’s to next year’s Cook-Off.
