A sweet revolution: The rise of craft chocolate in NZ

Kiwis are carving out a reputation for quality, ethics and exceptional craftsmanship.

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Cacao prices are at a record high but that hasn’t deterred the crop of boutique companies emerging in Aotearoa. And with Kiwis’ growing appreciation for quality and ethics – and flavour – Nikki Birrell unpacks the growing popularity of craft chocolate. While we may be known for our wines and coffee culture, a quiet revolution has been taking place in the world of chocolate, with local makers carving out a reputation for quality, ethical sourcing and exceptional craftsmanship.

At the heart of this movement is the concept of craft chocolate – distinct from its mass-market counterpart in both philosophy and flavour. But what exactly is craft chocolate, and why does it command such a devoted following? What is craft chocolate? Craft chocolate is a return to the roots of chocolate making, where every step of the process – from sourcing cacao beans to the final product – is carefully controlled by the maker..