Annual Chicken Wing Challenge brings the heat

In honour of the golden chicken statue on the Auckland campus, hall residents took part in the spicy chicken wing challenge for the ninth year.  

The sculpture was installed to pay homage to Albany’s past as a chicken farming area many years ago, Kelly Manning, national manager accommodation services tells Massive.  

Manning said, “With this historical context in mind, the idea naturally evolved into a chicken-eating challenge, making it a fun and relevant tradition that ties into the local heritage.” 

Hall residents are challenged to eat the spiciest chicken tenderloins in the fastest amount of time. 

The annual chicken wing challenge began in 2015 when Massey Halls Auckland opened.   

Manning said all participants are required to sign a disclosure form before taking part, which was developed by the legal team to ensure the event is conducted responsibly. 

The winner gets a trophy, points for their hall in the battle of the halls, and their name on the chicken wing challenge board at Te Rito Hall.  

She said prep for the event starts three months in advance, working on the hot sauce recipe.  

The event was inspired by events at the Wellington and Manawatū halls.  

Years ago, Massey Halls Manawatū had their well-known Gumboot Challenge, while Massey Halls Wellington had their annual tradition of jumping off the pier in pjs.