Horners Confectionary, a family-owned business based in Auckland, supplies approximately 22 million lollies to Air New Zealand annually. After taking over production from Cadbury Pascall in the mid-2000s, the company reverse-engineered the airline’s signature confectionery range to maintain a “uniquely New Zealand” passenger experience, according to company leadership and airline officials.
From Te Kuiti Factory to Airline Staple
Dhiru and his wife, Vina, originally operated out of the small Waikato town of Te Kuiti. According to Dhiru, the early days involved manual production, including rolling and cutting candy canes by hand. Following economic shifts in the late 1980s, the company invested in United States-based equipment to scale production, eventually moving operations to Auckland in 1999.
When Cadbury Pascall ceased domestic production, Air New Zealand sought a local replacement to preserve the ritual of offering sweets during descent. Alisha Armstrong, the airline’s head of customer experience, notes that the lollies serve a dual purpose: helping passengers equalize ear pressure and acting as a symbol of New Zealand hospitality.
Quality Control and the “Twist” Controversy
The transition was not without technical hurdles. When the airline switched from traditional twist-wrapped lollies to a pillow-wrap design, customer dissatisfaction was immediate. Dhiru Bhikha traveled overseas to secure specialized machinery to revert to the original packaging style, a move that restored passenger satisfaction. Raj Bhikha, who has since assumed leadership of the company, credits this attention to detail for the brand’s enduring relationship with the airline.
Did you know?
The “lolly runner” is a long-standing cabin ritual where child passengers are invited to assist flight attendants by distributing sweets to fellow travelers throughout the aircraft.
Industry Pivots and Future Growth
While the airline contract remains a point of “massive pride” for the family, Horners has adjusted its business model to account for a changing confectionery market. Raj Bhikha notes that the rise of cheaper imports has diminished the profitability of traditional candy canes. Consequently, the firm has shifted focus toward value-added products, including vitamin gummies and Manuka honey lozenges, sold under its own brands and as a third-party supplier.
Despite the popularity of the Air New Zealand lollies, the company has no plans to sell the specific airline-branded range in retail stores. Dhiru Bhikha states that he prefers to maintain the exclusivity of the product to prevent diminishing its value. Consumers can still access similar products through the company’s “Kiwiland” brand, such as their Orchard Fruits line.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take more than one lolly from the basket? Yes. According to Alisha Armstrong of Air New Zealand, passengers are welcome to take a handful, even if it draws attention from other travelers.
- What is the most popular flavour provided on flights? The white mint lolly is the most requested, with Horners producing double the amount of white sweets compared to other individual colours.
- Why aren’t the Air New Zealand lollies sold in stores? Horners chooses not to retail them to preserve the prestige and unique value of the airline-specific product.
Share Your Experience
Do you have a favorite flight ritual, or are you a fan of the classic white mint lolly? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts on iconic travel snacks.
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