Tony Stewart has long been one of New Zealand hospitality’s most respected figures, and it is his commitment to giving back that makes him a deserving recipient of the Haku Kingfish Champion for Change Award in 2026. Former owner of the acclaimed fine-dining Auckland restaurant Clooney, Tony has always understood the power of food to bring people together. Today, that philosophy has taken on an even greater meaning, rooted in community and connection. Following his remarkable health and recovery journey, Tony found a renewed sense of purpose through Fair Food’s Conscious Kitchen, an Auckland food-rescue charity that turns surplus into support by tackling food insecurity and reducing food waste. Working closely with Fair Food, Tony has helped establish the Shared Table dining series, bringing together many of New Zealand’s leading chefs to create memorable dinners created from rescued ingredients. Not only raising funds that support the charity’s vital work, the dinner series brings increased attention to a charity that is fighting hunger in a different way. Tony’s ability to unite the hospitality industry behind a meaningful cause has inspired both chefs and diners alike. His resilience, generosity and unwavering belief in hospitality creates positive change and continues to leave a lasting impact.