Griffins Biscuits

Our Story

Where it all began

 

 

Since the late 1800s, Griffin’s Snacks products have been found in the pantries all over New Zealand, from the bottom of the South Island through to the top of the North Island. Over the years many things have changed, including the locations of our factories, the brands we own and products we make but one thing has stayed the same – our genuine passion for creating happy snacking moments!

Read about our journey through the years below…

1890s

After emigrating to New Zealand from the UK, John Griffin, a flour and cocoa miller, expanded his booming Nelson business to make delicious biscuits and sweets.

1900s

When two fires ravaged the Griffin's factory, the public helped fund a new plant. The new factory went on to manufacture some of today's favourite biscuits: Gingernuts, Milk Arrowroot, and Super Wine.

1950s

By the 1950s Griffin's were at the leading edge of the manufacturing industry – our technology included an enrober and cooling tunnels which allowed for chocolate coating. The end of the decade saw the first automated wrapping machines installed to make quick work of getting products ready for shelves.  

1980s

During the 1980s Griffin's acquired several now iconic Kiwi brands including classic Huntley & Palmers crackers, Chitchat chocolate biscuits and Eta foods. 

1990s

The 1990s saw the addition of Chocolate Chippies, Shrewsburys, ToffeePops, Sultana Pasties, and Squiggles. Along with Chocolate Chippies came the famous Cookie Bear, a much loved character and brand ambassador.

2000s

Griffin's Snacks acquired New Zealand-grown company Nice & Natural in 2007, adding a tasty, power-packed range of bars to their portfolio.

2010s

The 2010s saw Griffin's biscuits step into the world of social media, launching a Facebook page and setting a New Zealand Facebook record for the most likes on a post when we announced that Choco-ade biscuits were returning to shelves.

We hit a huge milestone in 2014, celebrating 150 years of loving baking.

2020s

In 2021 Intersnack took full ownership of Griffin's Snacks. 

Soon after Intersnack's integration, Nelson based Proper Crisps & Lower Hutt based Mexicano were welcomed into the whanau.

After many requests we saw the return of Squiggles Candy and Eta Ripples Cheese and Onion Chips.