PHOTO: Foodie Asian Supermarket. WESTGATE
A two-hour wait at the checkout didn’t deter Aucklanders from flocking to what’s being called Aotearoa’s largest Asian supermarket on Saturday.
Foodie Asian Supermarket’s managing director, Tao Shi, greeted nearly every customer at the entrance, warning them of the long checkout queues. Despite this, most shoppers were unfazed.
The grand opening was held last Thursday, but a weekend filled with events and discounts attracted hundreds of visitors.
The highlight of Saturday’s activities was the lion dance, a Chinese tradition meant to bring good luck.
Located in Westgate, the supermarket spans about 3800 square meters and cost roughly $20 million to develop. Tao Shi expressed hopes of opening additional stores across Auckland and the South Island.
As a West Auckland local, Tao said he aimed to establish a large Asian store in the area to reduce long grocery trips. “For shopping, it’s at least a couple of hours drive just to get in and out. I need to go to at least three or four supermarkets,” he said.
Tao, a self-professed foodie, jokingly mentioned he’s the cook in his household and loves exploring various flavors and dishes. “I’d like a place where I can get everything at once,” he added.
He explained that with the growing Asian community in West Auckland, the store aims to meet the increasing demand for local and specialty products.
Re: News journalist Vivien Beduya was on-site and spoke to several shoppers about their thoughts on the new supermarket.
Dan Ly, 24, and Mia Nguyen, 22, were excited about the range of snacks and fresh ingredients. “We’re planning to make wonton soup and Korean hotpot, so this place is perfect for us,” said Mia. They also noted that some items were cheaper compared to other stores.
Isaac Go, 35, a Filipino shopper, appreciated the size and variety the store offered. “It’s like an all-in-one shop,” he said, excited to find Nissan seafood cup noodles, which he hadn’t been able to find elsewhere.
Priya and Matt Liang, a Fijian-Indian and Chinese couple, shared their excitement over the diverse options. Priya was especially keen on the candy and snacks, while Matt looked forward to trying out new drinks. “It’s unique — the stuff you can’t get from Pak’nSave or New World,” Matt said.
For many, the store offers a nostalgic connection to their home countries and the flavors they love.
SOURCE: 1 NEWS