One of the country’s favourite biscuit for a cause makes it’s annual return again this month – this time marking a special anniversary.
Words Natalie Cyra
March launches GirlGuiding New Zealand’s 2017 biscuit selling season. The public can expect to see stalls popping up all over the country as well as door-to-door sales from Pippins, Brownies, Guides and Rangers during the next four weeks.
Queenspark Christchurch Brownies 2017: Emily, Sophie, Skye & Sophie ready for the 2017 biscuit season
2017 marks 60 years of selling Guide Biscuits in New Zealand. GirlGuiding New Zealand says their biscuits are just as good now as they were when first sold in 1957.
Chief Executive Susan Coleman says the recipe for the original Guide biscuit is still basically the same since it was developed and sold in large square tins 60 years ago.
“We have met the demands of our modern market for chocolate and mini varieties, but the old favourites have stayed original. The recipe has hardly changed and local company Griffin’s still make them”.
“Guide Biscuits are easily the largest girl-led business in New Zealand. The girls help decide where to sell them, manage the money and develop people skills and positive business ethics”.
GirlGuiding NZ believes the needs of girls and young women are best met through an organisation that caters specifically for them. It is also important for girls to see women as role models in leadership and decision making. Currently it holds approximately 9000 members.
There are different sections within GirlGuiding NZ: Pippins (aged 5-6 years), Brownies (aged 7–9 ½ years), Guides (aged from 9 – 12½) and Rangers (aged 12½ – 17).
Ranger, Madeline Arps, adds that biscuit selling is always an exciting time for the girls. “For many across the age groups, it’s their first experience handling money and working out change and it is great to see them come out of their shells, gaining confidence in every sale.”
Just as they did 60 years ago, the profits from biscuit sales will go back into opportunities for girls across New Zealand through GirlGuiding.
Biscuits are available to buy online now and from April through a variety of other outlets.
Hero image of Masterton Brownies, 1958. For more information and great recipe ideas visit guidebiscuits.co.nz
