End of the line for iconic Kiwi lollies

The Snifter has snuffed it.

And there's rumours that the Jaffa, New Zealand's best-loved chocolate-orange mouthful, will only be available in plastic bags.

Crunchy boiled Sparkles and multi-coloured Tangy Fruit are also casualties of lack of consumer demand.

The iconic Kiwi treats have been axed by confectionary giant Cadbury Schweppes, which owns the Pascall brand.

Production of the snack counter stalwarts has ceased at Cadbury's Auckland factory and there are no immediate plans to restart the brands.

Cadbury Schweppes spokesman Daniel Ellis said: "Over a number of years, sales of Snifters, Sparkles, and Tangy Fruit have decreased significantly.

"Unfortunately, this continued lack of consumer interest and reduced sales means that the product is no longer viable for us to manufacture. We recognise that some consumers will be disappointed and apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Palmerston North's Downtown Cinemas chief executive John Garret was dismayed to hear movie-goers have sucked their last Snifter.

"I just can't believe it, I said to the sales guy: 'This is just ridiculous'."

Noisy plastic-bagged lollies would only cause problems, with patrons rustling during films, he said.

"Tangy Fruits were perfect in their little container. Bags are a pain in the cinema, because every time you put your hand in them everyone turns around to look at you."

Palmerston North Mayor Jono Naylor promised a "bulk buy-up" of Snifters.

"Well, I think it's tragic that an icon of New Zealand confectionary is disappearing from our shelves.

"Tangy Fruits have been a core part of moviegoers' consumption for many years. What will people now roll down the aisles?"

Palmerston North MP Steve Maharey was also shocked at the news.

"My reaction is 'what?' It's the end of a tradition to not have these sweets available and it's always a shame to see these traditions end.

"I'll miss Snifters but I'm not such a Tangy Fruit man."

Massey University student president Ying-yue Zhao said people would now have to look for alternative options at the movies.

"That's a bit rough but I guess it's their loss.

"I personally don't eat Snifters but I'm partial to a Tangy Fruit."

* Are you sad to see Snifters go? Post your comments below.

 

- © Fairfax NZ News