Nearly 2,000 gathered in the Hawkes Bay sunshine yesterday to celebrate New Zealand icon Wattie’s turning 90.
Wattie’s 90th celebration honoured the company’s legacy and was a fun day out for its 900 full-time employees and their families.
Founded in 1934 by Sir James Wattie, it started with a small factory in Hastings, initially making jam using Hawkes Bay's finest produce. It has become one of Hawkes Bay’s oldest companies and one of New Zealand’s most loved brands.
The brand tapped into New Zealanders' collective memory of growing up with familiar tastes like its rich tomato sauce, a delicious complement to the Kiwi Sausage roll, Wattie’s Fruit Salad and Peaches for breakfast, or the reliable baked beans or spaghetti on toast.
“We are immensely proud of Wattie's tradition and its evolution. This is a chance to celebrate and honour our staff who champion Wattie’s quality and values daily; many of them have been with the company for decades or from generation to generation,” said Managing Director Neil Heffer.
“Wattie’s products are woven into the social fabric of our Kiwi culture. It’s an honour to be a valued brand in households across the country. Over the last 90 years, Wattie’s has become a cornerstone of New Zealand food. Many of us love our sausages only with Wattie’s Tomato Sauce and Wattie’s Baked Beans and Spaghetti make up part of a Kiwi children’s favourite foods”.
The event centred around a carnival marquee serving favourites, including sausages and bread, spaghetti toasties, crispy golden chips, and burgers, all with the brand's tomato sauce. Drinks included a Wattie’s peach mocktail.
The afternoon was designed for all brand employees and their families to celebrate in true birthday party style, including live music, a photo wall, face painting, a magician and bouncy castles.
Playing giant games of Quoits, Jenga, Cornhole and Connect Four, proved popular and the high energy came from lots of delicious food made with brand products. A giant cake was also cut and shared.
“Celebrating with our staff and their families lies at the heart of the event and is true to Sir James’ vision of creating a business with a tightly connected relationship with the local community. We are thrilled to give out 45 long service awards presented by the Heretaunga Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst”.
More local news here
