Ep 1. Episode 1

My Kitchen Rules New Zealand season 4 episode 1 brings new twists and challenges to the table as the competition kicks off with eight teams of two battling it out to be crowned the ultimate MKR champions. Hosts Pete Evans and Manu Feildel return to judge the tense and exciting culinary face-offs, while newcomers Emma and Ben bring their own expertise and tastes to the judging panel.

The first challenge sets the tone for the entire series as the teams face off in a heated Instant Restaurant round. They have just one night to impress their fellow contestants, judges, and the guest judge - internationally renowned MasterChef judge and chef, Christina Tosi. Each team must whip up a three-course meal for their guests and win the hearts, minds, and taste buds of the judges to earn their spot in the next round.

The pressure is high as the teams take turns hosting their Instant Restaurants, with each duo bringing their unique backgrounds, flavours and dining experiences to the table. Emotions run high as the contestants push themselves to their culinary limits, some cracking under the stress while others boldly take risks and deliver some truly inspired dishes.

The first team to take on the Instant Restaurant round is Feilding farmers Sonya and Hadassah. The sisters-in-law are feeling confident in their farm-to-plate philosophy, but their nerves get the better of them as they struggle to keep up with the demands of running a busy kitchen.

The second team, best friends Heather and Mitch, also face their own set of challenges, including Heather’s fear of cooking meats and Mitch’s tendency to get distracted by his social media presence. However, they manage to pull off some impressive dishes that even Chef Christina is impressed by.

Next up are fiery siblings Monique and Henry. The duo has a passion for Maori cuisine and hope to inspire and educate the judges with their unique flavours and cooking techniques. However, their ambitious menu and Henry’s overconfidence prove to be their downfall.

Papamoa couple Jaryd and Ben have been together for six years and share a passion for plant-based dishes. They’re hoping to showcase the versatility and creativity of vegan food and impress their fellow contestants with their sophisticated flavours.

The fifth team, cousins Elie and Amela, are confident in their classic Italian cuisine, which they learned from their nonna. However, they struggle with timing and executing their dishes to perfection, leaving the judges less than impressed.

Papakura partners Alex and Gareth are the next to take on the Instant Restaurant challenge. The duo has a passion for fusion flavours and putting their own twist on classic dishes, but their artistic flair may not be enough to win over the judges.

Wellington couple Che and Brent have a shared love of bold flavours and decadent dishes. They hope their inventive menu will leave a lasting impression on the judges and their fellow contestants.

The final team, mother and daughter duo Heather and Mitch, are feeling the pressure as they round out the Instant Restaurant round. They’re hoping to impress with their British-inspired menu, but their lack of experience and communication in the kitchen puts them at risk of elimination.

As the episode concludes, the judges must decide which team will move on to the next round and who will be eliminated from the competition. The stakes are high as tensions simmer in the kitchen, alliances are formed, and bonds are tested. Who will rise to the challenge and who will be sent home? Tune in to My Kitchen Rules New Zealand season 4 episode 1 to find out.