FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | TUESDAY 6th SEPTEMBER
New Zealanders vote for local heroes.
Wattie's Baked BeaNZ has been voted as the Kiwi favourite in the election that divided the nation.
Over the last six weeks, Wattie's The Verdict has seen two iconic products, Wattie's Baked BeaNZ and Wattie's Spaghetti,
battle it out at the polls to be the nation's favourite.
It's been a tight race. However, today's results show BeaNZ coming out on top with 53 per cent of the votes.
The BeaNZ supporters were 'full of beans' after the announcement this morning, with excitement thick in the air. Turning
out to celebrate the results, BeaNZ fans from around the country were united in their support for a true Kiwi hero.
In a statement from Wattie's Baked BeaNZ camp, the official Kiwi favourite said:
"The nation has spoken. They want fibre, they want energy, and they want heroes. We are set to lead New Zealanders into
a new era of comfort and pure Kiwi-ness."
However, the always cheerful Wattie's Spaghetti was a clear leader on the campaign trial. With over 5400 Facebook fans,
Spaghetti had a remarkable following of happy, smiling spaghetti lovers from across the nation, supporting them online
and in the polls.
"It's great to see so many Spaghetti Fan's out there. Today's results have made me determined to continue to provide
happiness, smiles, and laughter to the many Spaghetti lovers of New Zealand. Now, I'll be out looking for BeaNZ fans who
just haven't given Spaghetti a try yet! I've got plenty of fun left to give," said Spaghetti in a statement released
this morning.
Over 12,000 Kiwis voted at www.wattiesverdict.co.nz, with 10,000 'fanning' their favourites on Facebook.
According to Heinz Wattie's spokesperson, Tim Skellern, the enthusiasm of Kiwis for these two iconic products has been
overwhelming.
"There has been a genuine love shown by New Zealanders for the Wattie's brand and these two products. It has blown us
away. On these products' Facebook pages, people have written stories and rhymes, told us memories and uploaded some
great images all relating to BeaNZ or Spaghetti. It's great to see!"
The results of this campaign have also provided an interesting insight into Kiwi attitudes. Despite the events of the
last 12 months, 47% of Kiwis favour the happy side of Wattie's Spaghetti personality.
The win from Wattie's Baked BeaNZ indicates Kiwis support the fuel of local heroes, and love the comfort it brings. And
with the upcoming sporting activity in the months ahead, Kiwis will need to stock up on the fuel of local heroes.
The winner was announced at a KidsCan breakfast at Mangere Central School, where both candidates got together to provide
a nourishing breakfast for hundreds of hungry kids.
ENDS