Wattie's canned food and condiments

Wattie's is an iconic New Zealand brand that has become a household staple since its inception. Founded in 1934 by James Wattie in Hastings, Hawke's Bay, the company initially focused on canning peaches and pears to reduce waste from local orchards. Over the decades, it expanded into a wide array of products, including its famous tomato sauce, baked beans, and frozen vegetables, deeply embedding itself in Kiwi culinary culture.

While the brand remains synonymous with New Zealand heritage, its ownership has transitioned to international conglomerates. In 1992, Wattie's was acquired by the H.J. Heinz Company. Following the global merger of Heinz and Kraft in 2015, the brand is now under the stewardship of Kraft Heinz. Despite these corporate changes, Wattie's continues to operate significant manufacturing facilities in New Zealand, particularly in Hastings and Christchurch, sourcing a large portion of its produce from local growers while also utilizing regional supply chains across Australasia.