The South african pantry

Bringing a taste of South Africa to Lower Hutt

For Cindy Marais and her husband Theo, moving from Pretoria, South Africa to New Zealand in late 2016 with their three young daughters was about creating a brighter future. While they quickly embraced life in New Zealand, they couldn't ignore the longing many South Africans felt for the familiar flavours of home.

That longing sparked an idea that would soon become South African Pantry.

"We felt a strong calling to share the wealth of what South Africa has to offer as a gift to New Zealand," says Cindy. "That's how the dream of South African Pantry was born."

Unable to find the right employment after arriving in New Zealand, the couple invested their life savings into opening their first store just seven months before the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, the business flourished, expanding to three locations in just a few years. Today, South African Pantry has stores in Lower Hutt's High Street, Palmerston North's Broadway Avenue, and Kapiti, where their famous biltong, droëwors and traditional desserts are produced.

The Lower Hutt store, which opened in 2023, has become a popular destination for both South Africans seeking a taste of home and curious Kiwis wanting to discover authentic South African cuisine.

Whether you're preparing for a traditional potjiekos or a bring-and-braai, South African Pantry has everything you need. Shelves are stocked with authentic groceries imported directly from South Africa, while customers can also indulge in favourites including boerewors, biltong, droëwors, koeksisters, melktert, peppermint crisp tart, rusks, Creme Soda and a wide selection of South African chocolates.

Their handcrafted biltong remains the biggest drawcard. Around 600 kilograms of fresh New Zealand beef is processed every week, producing approximately 300 kilograms of premium dried meat.

“It's not uncommon to see customers leaving the store with a piece of droëwors,hanging out of their mouth,” Cindy says.

Operating seven days a week with a team of around 20 staff, South African Pantry prides itself on consistency, quality products, excellent value and genuinely friendly service.

As competition has grown, Cindy believes those values continue to set the business apart.

"We focus on keeping our quality high, our products consistent and making sure every customer leaves happy."

LOCATION: 152 High Street, Lower Hutt

SOCIALS: southafricanpantry