THE CHUCKWAGON ROLLS IN

GrillBillies BBQ, a locally owned family venture, is bringing the aromas of American-style barbecue to private functions and events across the region.

Grown from a passion project that began during the country’s lockdown years, founder Craig Lees first stepped into the world of traditional barbecue back in 2020. With extra hours available, he began experimenting with the art of smoking meat, learning how different cuts respond to low temperatures, wood smoke, and patience. What began as backyard curiosity quickly developed into a serious craft.

Along the way, Craig connected with members of the growing NZ Pitmasters community, a group of enthusiasts dedicated to American-style barbecue techniques. Through shared knowledge, advice and lots of banter, he refined his process and eventually became more involved in the New Zealand competition BBQ scene. Friends and family soon noticed the results.

What began as a hobby gradually evolved into something much bigger. “It quickly became an obsession,” Craig says of the long overnight cooks and constant experimenting that define the low-and-slow style. That passion has now turned into a business the family is proud to share with the wider community.

At the centre of the operation is a fully customised, self-contained mobile food truck affectionately known as ‘The ChuckWagon’. Built specifically for barbecue service, the truck allows GrillBillies BBQ to travel throughout the region, serving smoked meats, burgers, and barbecue favourites – a setup perfectly suited to any occasion.

For the Lees family, the business is also about giving back to the place they’ve called home for 16 years. Warkworth is where Craig and Gem have worked hard, where his three children grew up attending local schools and playing sport, and where Craig has spent countless hours coaching youth teams, building strong connections across the community.

With GrillBillies BBQ now officially rolling out, the family is excited to share a passion that began with a backyard smoker and grew into a celebration of flavour, craft, and community – no available to bring to any event across the region.

022 535 8348 | craig@tdmc.co.nz