The trophy was awarded to The Glider Cafe, owned by Jennie and Simon Hales, who opened the business in November last year.
About 30 people flew in to Omarama Airfield for the trophy presentation at the popular cafe, with members arriving in 15 aircraft from Christchurch, Wānaka, Dunedin and Timaru.
Mrs Hales told the Oamaru Mail it was "pretty cool" the cafe had been selected to receive the national trophy in only her first season.
"Someone came in to the cafe and told my staff that we’d won the award initially, so that was sweet and then they organised a fly-in, to come and present me the trophy, which was pretty cool.
"I want to say thank you to the gliding community and to the aviation community for their support," she said.
Mrs Hales acknowledged her staff for their friendly service, and chef Julie Grant for producing good quality food.
AOPA life members Kevin Anderson and Brian Hore presented the trophy to Mrs Hales.
Mr Anderson said the event went "really well".
He said it was impressive what the owners had achieved with the cafe in a short time.
The trophy was awarded based on votes by AOPA members nationwide.
"A notice went out to our 1500 members, including aircraft owners and pilots all across New Zealand, about the places they stop for cups of tea and coffee and food, and they voted for the cafe based on the good food and staff, and the nice location," Mr Anderson said.
Nestled among tall trees at Omarama Airfield, the cafe gives people the opportunity to sit and watch gliders set off and land in one of the world’s best soaring areas.
Originally from the coastal village of Moeraki, Mrs Hales has worked in hospitality "most of her life" including at the Moeraki Boulders Cafe and the former culinary institution, Fleurs, renowned for its homegrown hospitality and locally sourced food.
The Glider Cafe is now closed for winter and will reopen in September.
