Local suppliers in Wellington

Wellington has a reputation for premium food and beverages. Here’s a taste of what the region has to offer

First published on 29 May 2012. Updated on 7 Jun 2012.

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Regal King Salmon

Regal King Salmon are raised in the pure streams of New Zealand’s South Island before being transferred to the pristine waters of the Marlborough Sounds. Free from antibiotics and chemicals, Regal King Salmon were awarded the coveted 3 stars at the International Taste and Quality Institute (iTQi) Superior Taste Awards in Brussels and described by the judges as “exceptional” and “remarkable”.

Lot Eight Olives and Olive Oils

Nalini and Colin Baruch were in Wairarapa for a weekend visit when they fell in love with the Martinborough Olive Grove. They bought a property consisting of 11 groves and a total of some 5,000 olive trees. Today, their Lot Eight brand releases four oils each year – two extra virgin olive oils, a single blend and a citrus olive oil – and their trophy cabinet is filled with international accolades. They also produce marinated olives, pesto, tapenades and dukkah.

Whittaker’s Chocolate

James Henry Whittaker arrived in New Zealand in 1890 and six years later he was making chocolate from home and selling it from his horse and cart. Today the Whittaker family business is helmed by James Henry’s grandsons, Andrew and Brian, making “good honest chocolate” in unique and tasty flavours at their chocolate factory 20 minutes north of the Wellington CBD. This year, Whittaker’s was listed as New Zealand’s third most trusted brand.

Lavender’s Green

Lavender’s Green are best known in NZ and Australia for their lemon and lime cordials. The fruits are organically grown and hand-squeezed on owners Mary and Peter Biggs’ farm in Wairarapa. Add to a glass of sparkling mineral water, with crushed ice and a slice, for a refreshing drink. Lavender’s Green also produce mustards, chutneys, jellies, curds, fudge and preserved lemons, all available in Australia at David Jones stores.

42BELOW

In Wellington in 1999, adman Geoff Ross got to work with a still in his garage. Through trial and error and a fair amount of taste testing, Geoff launched 42BELOW locally and then internationally. It took the vodka world by storm. The signature vodka of 42BELOW is made with pure New Zealand spring water. The range includes New Zealand flavours of Kiwifruit, Manuka Honey, Passionfruit and the locals.