Millie, 17, was named Southland Young Entrepreneur of the Year at last week’s Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Southland Company of the Year 2025 awards.

Her company, The Lost Larder, which aims to turn overlooked and under-used ingredients into premium products, was also named company of the year and picked up the top awards in the primary industry and sales and marketing categories.

It launched with a refined Waituna New Zealand eel pate, co-developed with Southland chef Ethan Flack.

Millie said the idea came about as she wanted to get more eel into the domestic market but realised there was no point in buying and re-selling it when it could be bought cheaper directly from suppliers.

"So I decided to create a marketing business for forgotten foods. It was in the early stages of research that the idea of eel pate came up as a more Kiwi-friendly product for New Zealand."

She had spent about 200 hours on the project that year, and had received "a lot of amazing support" from Southland businesses, Millie said.

She hopes to expand its reach through retail placement in specialty stores and premium grocers, and restaurant distribution across Otago and Southland.

"Overall, this year has been more about just getting the product ready and safe for market, but I will be very excited to really kick into some real marketing after a couple more things are finalised."

McIntyre Dick chief executive Rachel Lock, who presented the award, said the calibre of ideas and execution from the 50 student companies this year was "exceptional".

"The Lost Larder stood out for a well-validated service, sharp execution and a compelling growth story," she said.

"Southland should be proud of these emerging entrepreneurs." — Allied Media

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