60 years of Guide biscuit bliss

Every packet of Girl Guide biscuits sold in Nelson helps young girls learn how to live with confidence, Julia Ferguson says.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of Girl Guide biscuits being sold in New Zealand and Ferguson, Nelson’s designated ‘‘biscuit champion’’, says they’re as popular as ever.

‘‘People still love them. They absolutely love them. My partner has the two plain biscuits with the butter in the middle, which I think is quite common from back in the day,’’ she said.

‘‘Everyone likes them, not just a certain age group. I think everyone’s grown up with them as well. It’s memories and knowing you can’t get them all year that makes it special.’’

Ferguson has been helping to co-ordinate Girl Guide biscuit stalls around Nelson this month.

She said about 3500 packets have been sold at stalls and by going door-to-door. ‘‘Who can say no to a cute child?’’ Ferguson said.

Her 7-year-old daughter Lily Ferguson-Brill, a member of Stoke Brownies, has been helping with the annual fundraiser, which goes towards Girl Guiding fees and activities.

Ferguson said Girl Guiding helped teach her daughter and other girls important life lessons.

‘‘I think it teaches them life skills. How to actually do things, how to cook, how to camp and build confidence which I think is fantastic for them.

‘‘It’s not connected to internet or phones or computers, it’s actually going out and doing things, enjoying life.’’

Ferguson said Girl Guide biscuit season officially ends tomorrow, but the biscuits will still be available next month, including at Blast’s Family Day Out at Richmond Park Showgrounds on April 14-15.