You know that moment when you discover something so delicious it makes you question everything you thought you knew about a food? That’s exactly what happened when we first tried Great Day Mallow’s incredible marshmallows from the Waikato.
How it all began
Here’s what we love about Great Day Mallow’s story. It started with an unknown family legacy and some seriously vintage equipment. Back in 2017, Rachel and Mike were pottering around their home kitchen with cake mixers from the 1970s when they remembered something special about Mike’s family history.
“We took inspiration from Mike’s Great Grandfather who crafted quality confectionery for Auckland theatres in the 1930s,” they told us. Can you imagine those gorgeous old theatres filled with the smell of handcrafted sweets? That family connection sparked something beautiful. They were determined to create marshmallows that were completely different from anything else out there.
What started with “a plume of sugar dust in the Waikato” has grown into something incredible, but here’s the thing we really admire. They haven’t lost that original spark. “Today, in a mallow kitchen, the mixers may be bigger but the craft and commitment of the Mallow crew to produce the best marshmallow in New Zealand is unwavering.”
These aren’t your camping marshmallows
Let’s be honest. Most of us grew up thinking marshmallows were those squishy pink and white things you toasted over a fire. Great Day Mallow completely changed our minds about what marshmallows could be.
Their flavours are genuinely exciting. Think feijoa (so perfectly Kiwi!), passionfruit bursting with freeze-dried fruit powder that’s 100% the real deal, and a mint and chocolate combination that’s simply divine. No artificial anything, just pure, gorgeous flavours that make you close your eyes and savour every bite.
Here’s something we learned that really impressed us. They make everything to order in small batches. “Fresh is definitely best with marshmallow, and that’s why we make in small batches and keep minimal stock on hand,” they explain. Their philosophy is beautifully simple. “Eat them when you get them.” Because when something is this good, why would you wait?
When there is time to briefly step away from the Mallow bakery, Rachel and Mike search the world for flavour experiences to inspire the next development of the Great Day Mallow range.
What we’ve learned about supporting small producers
Working with Great Day Mallow has taught us something beautiful about the ripple effects of choosing local. When you support a small producer like this, you’re not just buying marshmallows. You’re supporting a Hamilton-based team who are passionate about their craft, retailers across New Zealand who champion quality local foods, and ultimately, all of us who get to enjoy these incredible treats.
“You might see us around at some of New Zealand’s best retailers of gourmet foods, receive a pack in a lovingly curated gift hamper or have us send your favourite direct to your door,” they say. We love how they’ve built relationships throughout the country, connecting with people who share their values about quality and community.
Here’s what happens when values align
The reason we’re so excited to work with Great Day Mallow is simple. They care about the same things we do. Creating something special, supporting local communities, and believing that food should bring joy to people’s lives.
Their marshmallows appear in our Waikato gift boxes because they perfectly represent what makes this region special. Innovative producers who are quietly revolutionising their industries while staying true to their roots.
What This Means for Our Communities
When you choose a gift box featuring Great Day Mallow, you’re supporting Hamilton-based artisans and contributing to their regional economy, plus our 1% donation programme that helps New Zealand charities. It’s amazing how something as simple as choosing great marshmallows can create positive change.
Trust us, once you try these marshmallows, you’ll understand why we’re so passionate about sharing Great Day Mallow’s story. Find them in our Wondrous Waikato Gift Box or treat someone special to their artisan collection. Your friends will definitely be asking where you found something so delicious!
Wondrous Waikato Gift Box
From $77.50
