Nelson-based Argentinian food vendors hoping for upset rugby win

Argentinian Matias Cacciavillani and his New Zealand partner Chelsea Hall have a soft spot for Los Pumas when they play the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship in Nelson on 8 September.

Matias hails from Patagonia, while Chelsea is from Wellington, they met in Australia and have been living in Nelson with their son Sebastian for four years.

According to Matias, there is always some healthy rivalry in their household.

“We’re supporting Los Pumas, as it would be awesome for them to win in Nelson, it would be a whole other level,” Matias says.

“We have often talked about getting half All Blacks, half Los Pumas jerseys made to show our support for both teams.”

They decided to settle in Nelson after completing a three month road trip of New Zealand to find the ideal spot to live.

“It didn’t take much convincing,” Chelsea says.

“We love the weather, and the proximity to the sea, the mountains and the bush.”

The couple has been running an Argentinian food truck and catering company, Viva La Vaca for three years.

They are excited to be part of the Game Day experience in Nelson, selling asado (meats cooked on their wood fired barbecue BBQ), along with empanadas, chorizo and alfajores.

“We are looking forward to the awesome vibe in town, Argentinians love a good fiesta, music and good food and we have a wee glimmer of hope that Los Pumas might beat the All Blacks on the day,” Matias says.

“We’re excited to be bringing a taste of Argentina to Nelson.”