Crux Photo of the Day sponsors: business turns 20

From Patagonia – sponsors of the Crux 2023 Photo of the Day competition.

“Patagonia Chocolates is thrilled to announce its 20th birthday, marking two decades of creating handmade treats that have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and tourists alike.

Since starting out as a small chocolate shop in an Arrowtown alleyway, Patagonia Chocolates has blossomed into a must-visit destination, now boasting four stores across Queenstown, Arrowtown, Wānaka, and Queenstown Airport.

Over the past 20 years, Patagonia Chocolates has evolved into a hub of artisan excellence. The company offers a range of unique flavours and high-quality products, including chocolates, award winning ice creams, coffees, drinks, and desserts, all designed to delight the senses and bring joy.

In its flagship store on Queenstown's Rees Street, visitors can witness the magic of chocolate making firsthand, whilst overlooking the dramatic landscape of Lake Wakatipu.

The teacher from Hāwea Flat, Jennie Lyall, who took out the grand prize from Patagonia Chocolates for the Crux Photo of the Day competition for 2023. She won Patagonia products every month - for a year.

Inspired by traditional Italian and Argentinian methods and recipes, they use only the highest quality ingredients sourced locally and around the world to create the best possible flavour experience.

Some flavours also celebrate the fusion of cultures, such as the Tramontana ice cream which combines house-made Dulce de Leche with pieces of Hokey Pokey.

Patagonia Chocolate’s sister company recently purchased an orchard in Central Otago, further cementing its commitment to quality and sustainability. This will allow them to locally produce even more of their own fruit, ensuring the freshest, highest quality natural ingredients for their products.

"This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our team and the support of our loyal customers and suppliers," says Alex Gimenez, founder of Patagonia Chocolates. "The next 20 years are going to be just as special, and we can't wait to share them with everyone."

To mark this special occasion, Patagonia Chocolates has revamped its website, introducing an interactive 'Build a Box' function.

This lets customers to create their own bespoke selection of chocolate bars, truffles, or Bonbons, and have them delivered anywhere in New Zealand. They’ve also released new packaging for Bonbons and Truffles, featuring artwork inspired by the landscapes in the Wakatipu basin.

 Founded in 2005 in Queenstown, Patagonia Chocolates has become a loved local brand, renowned for its handcrafted chocolates, innovative flavours, and immersive cafe experiences. With its expansion into orchards and continued growth, the company remains committed to quality, sustainability, and culinary excellence.”

Visit https://www.patagoniachocolates.co.nz/ or https://www.patagoniachocolates.co.nz/collections/build-a-box to try out the new feature.