Creative Junction Magazine August 4th | Page 18

A Chocolate Addicts Dream FEATURE PHILIPPA MANNAGH I admit to being addicted to chocolate. So on our family trip up North, there was no way I was going to drive past Makana Confections in Kerikeri this time. I hadn’t been there since the new cafe had opened and being many years ago, it had changed a lot. It’s more than just the mouth watering sweets however, this is an experience that should not be missed and something to do at least once. Inside, the factory it’s divided by glass walls where the visitor can watch the chocolate making process before their eyes. When you take children in, there is this moment of wonder as they discover the behind the scenes magic of natures gift. With the focus on gift quality confections, the prices are reflective of this standard. I also discovered on this day that Kerikeri is not the only location of the Makana boutique factory, you can also find them located in the heart of the Marlborough Wine Trail, at the top of the South Island. We caught the eye of the staff member passing around samples. Today, it was the macadamia butter toffee crunch and a cherry Armagnac truffle. The delights melt away in the mouth, an obvious choice for special occasions or to treat the special person in your life. The children thought they had won the jackpot at this point! Before leaving, we stood at the window, mesmerised by the swirl of cocoa and the perfected process that displayed skill and concentration. It’s clear from one visit that their values here are freshness, quality and presentation. What a great stop off on your way North! Makana Chocolates have just opened a boutique in Newmarket. For more information visit www.makana. co.nz.