Unwrapped: Whittaker’s since 1896

2026 marks 130 years of Whittaker’s. What began as J.H. Whittaker’s small family business in 1896 has grown into a world-class chocolate manufacturer, still proudly family-owned four generations on and based in its original Porirua factory.

Unwrapped: Whittaker’s since 1896 invites Chocolate Lovers behind the scenes to discover how a local maker became a global name. Set within the wider history of cacao production, the exhibition traces Whittaker’s story—from J.H. Whittaker’s founding vision and the iconic products that followed through to the company’s ongoing commitment to quality, beans-to-bar manufacturing and ‘Good Honest Chocolate’ values.

The exhibition unwraps the story of New Zealand’s Most Trusted Brand and features objects to delight all the senses. Visitors will encounter nostalgic memorabilia and classic advertising, a scent station that reveals chocolate’s layered aromas and artworks made in collaboration with contemporary creatives.

Presented in partnership with Whittaker’s.