Food manufacturer
In 2017-18 New Zealand's richest man Graeme Hart and his son Harry purchased three NZ food companies. Hubbards, Hansells and Gregg's sauces are now part of this new Hart vehicle: Walter & Wild (formerly HFG Group). Acquired NZ ice cream company Emerald Foods in 2021. Harry owns 33% and his father Graham owns the remaining 67%.
Company Assessment
(Last updated Mar 2025)
Praise
Criticism
Information
Walter & Wild Ltd
Praise
Criticism
Information
Palm oil rating - WAZA
The PalmOil Scan app, developed by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), rates companies based on their commitment to sustainable palm oil. Companies are evaluated on their use of certified sustainable palm oil (CSPO), conservation efforts, sourcing practices, and RSPO membership. Ratings range from Excellent to No Commitment. This company is rated "Poor" (retrieved 4 Feb 2025). However, scoring is largely dependent on reporting to the RSPO, and smaller companies may avoid membership because of the associated fees and paperwork. Therefore this criticism has not been heavily weighted.
Source: WAZA
(2025)
Company Details
Type:
Family-owned private company
Subsidiaries:
Emerald Foods Ltd
Ice cream manufacturer
Owned by wealthy New Zealand entrepreneur Diane Foreman from 2004 until 2015, when she sold the ice cream manufacturing arm of her business to a Hong Kong based group. In 2021 the company returned to New Zealand ownership when it was acquired by Walter & Wild. Products are made in New Zealand and sold in more than 30 countries around the world. Operates Movenpick and New Zealand Natural ice cream parlours in Australia and New Zealand.
Hubbard Foods Ltd
Breakfast cereal manufacturer
Founded 1988. Manufactures own brand and private label breakfast cereals sold through supermarkets. Acquired by Walter & Wild in 2018.
Hansells Food Group Ltd
Food manufacturing
Established in 1996 with the launch of Aunt Betty's steamed puddings. In 2006 Old Fashioned Foods acquired iconic NZ food company, Hansells. In April 2010, Old Fashioned Foods changed its company name to Hansells Food Group Limited. One of NZ's major food exporters. Acquired by Walter & Wild in 2018
Contact Details
Products / Brands
Walter & Wild
Alfa One
Butter & Margarine
Alfa One
Cooking Oil
Aunt Betty's
Topping & Syrup
Aunt Betty's
Pudding & Custard
Aunt Betty's
Frozen Desserts/Fruit
Chef's Kitchen
Pudding & Custard
Hansells
Cordial
Hansells
Soup
Hansells
Pudding & Custard
Hubbards
Muesli & Oats
Hubbards
Cereal
New Zealand Natural
Ice Cream
Vitafresh
Cordial
Wheelies
Biscuits/Crackers