Top cheese store

OAMARU’S Whitestone Cheese Co cheese factory store has been named one of New Zealand top cheese stores.

For the first time the New Zealand Speciality Cheesemakers Association (NZSCA) has decided to recognise a collection of cheese shops across the country who promote the local industry by educating cheese lovers and promoting locallymade cheese.

NZSCA chairman Neil Willman said it was wonderful to create a programme which recognised and acknowledged the country’s best cheese retailers.

‘‘We’re seeing so many speciality retailers creating wonderful experiences for those hunting out New Zealand’s finest speciality cheeses.

‘‘Retailers play a vital role in educating people about New Zealand cheese. While our cheesemakers are making cheese, retailers are speaking directly to consumers, providing tastings of local cheese and explaining the stories behind the production. They ensure cheese lovers understand the love and care which goes into making local speciality cheese.’’

The other top stores named are in Auckland Sabato, Mt Eden and Farro in Grey Lynn, in Putaruru Over the Moon Deli, in Hastings New World, in Featherston C'est Cheese Artisan Cheese & Deli, and in Wellington Moore Wilsons.

The stores will feature on the association’s new Cheese Lovers website.