Wattie's Black Beans in Spring Water

Wattie's Black Beans in Spring Water is a quintessential staple in New Zealand pantries, known for its focus on quality and local production. The brand was founded in 1934 by Sir James Wattie in Hastings, Hawke's Bay, originally to prevent the waste of local fruit. Over the decades, it has grown into New Zealand's most iconic food brand.

While the black beans themselves may be sourced internationally depending on seasonal availability, the product is prepared and canned in New Zealand, primarily at the company's extensive manufacturing facilities in Hastings. This ensures the high standards of production that 'Kiwi as' consumers expect.

Since 1992, the brand has been under international ownership, following its acquisition by the H.J. Heinz Company. Today, it is part of The Kraft Heinz Company portfolio. Looking ahead to late 2026, the parent company is expected to undergo a corporate split, with Wattie's positioned within the grocery segment of the newly reorganized business structure. Despite these global corporate shifts, Wattie's maintains its strong identity and operational roots in New Zealand.