Loco for cocoa: Mind Your Temper
Going to the dark side isn’t a bad thing when you’re talking about chocolate.
From melt-in-the-mouth chocolate truffles to whipped chocolate creams, ganache, caramels, bon bons, pralines, and more, Valentine’s and Galentine’s is the perfect excuse to go chocolate crazy. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen gets the lowdown on what’s hot in local chocolate circles from Ōtautahi chocolatier Nel Vincencio, owner of Mind Your Temper.
What’s new on the local chocolate scene?
I’ve noticed that a lot more Canterbury chocolate makers are using ethical chocolate. Most local makers aren’t buying from the big manufacturers in Europe anymore. They’re sourcing from smaller-scale companies, as I do. I buy from local bean-to-bar companies in New Zealand that buy the raw cacao directly from farmers. So, it’s ethical and sustainable.
Any new flavours trending in 2026?
There’s still a big demand for matcha, so I make matcha bon bons. Also, pistachio, because Dubai-style chocolate is popular right now. As well, texture is being used more. Local chocolatiers are experimenting with different textures in terms of inclusions, such as nuts, dried fruit, caramel, spices, or cookie pieces.
What are you excited about?
I’m from the Philippines, so I’m experimenting with traditional Filipino flavours like pandan leaf – known as the ‘vanilla of Asia’ – and ube (pronounced ‘oo-beh’), which was a big global food trend about five years ago that has finally reached New Zealand. Ube is naturally sweet, it has a nutty flavour and is bright purple.
Sweet as!
Looking to gift chocolate for Valentine’s Day? Support our local artisans:
Mind Your Temper
Premium dairy-free chocolate.
mindyourtemper.co.nz
She Universe
Organic chocolate handmade in Ōhinetahi, Governors Bay.
sheuniverse.co.nz
Queen Anne Chocolates
Handcrafted in New Zealand since 1925.
queenanne.co.nz
Theobroma Riccarton
Chocolate café and shop.
theobroma.co.nz
Chocolate Traders
Artisanal chocolate makers based in Lincoln.
chocolatetraders.co.nz
Adelphi Fine Chocolate
Handcrafted, organic, and luxurious truffles.
adelphifinechocolate.co.nz
