A wild new chocolate block has just landed in Coles – but while Aussies are frothing over the latest addition to shelves, the move has angered our mates across the ditch.
New Zealand confectionary brand Whittaker’s released a “Choc Cross Bun” bar into the Australian supermarket this week.
The limited-edition creation, which retails for $6.90, combines the “bold flavours of hot cross buns” with the brand’s cult “Creamy Milk” chocolate, and despite only just hitting shelves, it’s proving extremely popular.
But while Aussies have been divided over the “indulgent” flavour, Kiwis have been left furious, as the Easter-themed block hasn’t been released in the country where it is produced.
With taste test videos and photos of the Choc Cross Bun bar flooding social media, many New Zealand natives have begun airing their disappointment.
“Why do Australia always get the limited editions first now?” one outraged Kiwi asked.
“WE NEED THIS IN NZ!” another agreed.
As one mused: “Made in NZ and Australia gets it first. Gutted.”
Whittaker’s have confirmed the block will be sold on home ground from February 5, telling news.com.au reaction to the offering in Australia had been positive.
“We know people love the traditional, bold flavours of Hot Cross Buns, so Whittaker’s wanted to celebrate Easter by bringing Chocolate Lovers the best of both worlds – quality chocolate, along with the nostalgic flavours of Hot Cross Buns they know and love,” Soraya Cottin, Chief Marketing Office at Whittaker’s, said.
“The flavour is a modern twist on a traditional Easter favourite & the positive response has solidified our decision to bring this unique chocolate block to market.”
Coles shoppers have been divided over the flavour, with some declaring it was a firm “no”, while others said it was a “delight”.
“A lot of food influencers are not loving it, but I’m pretty keen,” Michael Jaimie, a foodie from South Australia, said on TikTok.
“It smells like those little ginger cookies with the white icing on them, that you get in the Christmas tins. So good.”
After tasting the block – which he noted had “chunky raisins” in and contained a “natural mix spice flavour and orange oil” – Michael declared there was “a lot going on”.
“Woah. The chocolate is quite spicy, not heat wise… It is indulgent. You’d only need a few squares,” he concluded.
“If you like fruit and nut chocolate, you’ll love this.”
People were quick to react to Michael’s video, declaring they were “desperate” to try it.
“OMG stop!!!! Whittakers is hands down the best chocolate and you will not change my mind, runninggggg to get this one,” one responded.
“OMG fine I’ll go get some,” another teased.
As others simply said: “YUM.”