In 1838, missionaries to New Zealand planted the first lemon trees on the shores of Kawhia Harbour. The following year honey bee hives were imported from England. Along with these essentials, the missionaries and other European settlers would have included ground or root ginger in their kitchen supplies, as it was recognised for both its flavouring and medicinal properties. No doubt, as winter set in, these settlers would have sought comfort in traditional, non-alcohol drinks flavoured with lemon, ginger and honey - and for special occasions, perhaps a glass of wassail, a mulled wine flavoured with cinnamon sticks, grated nutmeg, cloves and ginger.

The SHOTT Company, located in the historic settlement of Petone, was determined to maintain the tradition of infusing authentic flavours into its thoroughly modern range of professional café beverages. The Company's blend master uses only the very best ingredients, and carefully mixes these so you can enjoy the most rewarding FLAVOUR.