Iconic brands to be phased out as Heinz Wattie’s announces major NZ shake-up

Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Heinz Wattie’s has proposed to close its factories in Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin (not pictured).

Heinz Wattie’s has proposed closing three of its New Zealand manufacturing facilities, with about 350 roles expected to be affected.

The company said it was proposing to stop the sale and production of frozen vegetables, Gregg’s coffee, and dips sold mainly under the Mediterranean, Just Hummus and Good Taste Company brands.

Those products would be phased out over the course of the year.

The changes would result in the closure of manufacturing sites in Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin.

Gregg’s coffee products, alongside other Wattie’s brands, would be phased out if the proposal goes ahead.

Packing operations at associated frozen lines on King St in Hastings would also cease.

Heinz Wattie’s Limited managing director Andrew Donegan said the company was aware of the impact the decision would have on staff, families, growers, and local communities.

“These are people who have helped build this business over decades, and our priority now is supporting them,” Donegan said.

“The decision to start this process was not taken lightly. Numerous alternatives and options were explored before reaching this phase. It is a necessary step to position our company for the future,” he added.

E tū union delegate Kathy Perrin, who has worked for the company for 46 years, said she was “gutted” for her colleagues.

“Some are retirement age, paying high rents, living pay cheque to pay cheque.

“The devastating financial and emotional impact on my colleagues cannot be overstated. The average length of service is around 30 years. There is nowhere else to go.”

E tū director Finn O’Dwyer-Cunliffe said the proposal, if successful, would be a “massive blow” for workers and the wider food industry.

“It’s not just the factory workers. Around 220 growers in the Canterbury region alone supply the Christchurch site. The ripple effects of these closures will be felt across entire communities.

“We should be investing in local manufacturing, keeping people employed, and strengthening our food security.”

Instead, iconic Kiwi brands were disappearing from local production lines, he said.

“That's not good for workers, it's not good for regional economies, and it's not good for the country.”

Donegan said the New Zealand manufacturing environment has become increasingly difficult due to globally high inflation and industry challenges.

The final number of impacted roles will be confirmed following a consultation period and the consideration of redeployment opportunities.

The company stated it would work with employees, unions, and retail partners throughout the process.