Wattie's Packaged Food

Wattie's is one of New Zealand's most iconic food brands, established in 1934 by Sir James Wattie in Hastings. The brand initially focused on canning peaches, pears, and tomatoes to prevent waste and quickly grew to become a staple in Kiwi households. Over the decades, it expanded its range to include frozen vegetables, sauces, soups, and baby food, maintaining a strong reputation for sourcing local ingredients from the fertile Hawke’s Bay region.

While the brand is deeply rooted in New Zealand's agricultural history, its ownership has transitioned to international conglomerates. After a series of acquisitions involving Goodman Fielder and H.J. Heinz, it is now a core part of the global Kraft Heinz portfolio. Despite being part of a multinational corporation, Wattie's continues to operate significant manufacturing facilities in New Zealand, particularly in Hastings and Christchurch, which serve both the local market and export destinations.