Born in the UK and raised on Auckland’s North Shore, Jack’s passion for food began around the family dinner table, where great meals were less about what was on the plate and more about the connections they created. After a successful career in corporate procurement that took him across New Zealand and Europe, travelling through Italy with his fiancée Rosie inspired a new path. Experiencing Italy’s rich food culture showed him how food can bring people together, creating memories and moments worth sharing.

That inspiration became Pasta Purists, a fresh pasta meal kit business delivering restaurant-quality Italian dishes across Auckland. Every Friday, customers receive handcrafted pasta, scratch-made sauces, and premium ingredients, allowing them to create an authentic pasta experience at home in just ten minutes. The menu includes favourites such as slow-braised Beef Cheek Ragù, classic Carbonara with crispy guanciale, and a rotating selection of seasonal dishes designed to showcase quality ingredients and traditional techniques.

Jack launched Pasta Purists to fill a gap between expensive restaurant dining and uninspiring ready-made meals. His vision was simple: make exceptional pasta more accessible without compromising on quality, flavour, or the experience of sharing a meal with family and friends.

Joining The Kitchen Project marked Jack’s first step into both entrepreneurship and the food industry. Seeking guidance, accountability, and a supportive community, he found immense value in learning from experienced industry leaders and mentors. Highlights of the programme included expert guest speakers who generously shared practical insights, alongside regular mentoring sessions that helped him stay focused, motivated, and confident as he grew the business.

Looking ahead, Jack hopes to make Pasta Purists a household name across New Zealand and the go-to brand for premium pasta meal kits. Alongside expanding the business and introducing new seasonal and limited-edition menu offerings, he is passionate about continuing to share his journey and helping inspire the next generation of food entrepreneurs. At its heart, Pasta Purists remains focused on one simple goal: bringing people together through exceptional food.