Hospitality Business Magazine

From the Swiss Alps to the Southern Alps: Lindt to open in Queenstown

Opening this weekend, a new Lindt Chocolate Shop promises to delight chocolate lovers from New Zealand and beyond at the chocolatier’s first South Island venue.

Queenstown joins the ranks of chocolate destinations such as Zürich, Paris, Auckland, and Sydney, offering visitors a luxurious chocolate haven while showcasing Swiss craftsmanship against the beautiful backdrop of Queenstown’s Southern Alps.

Visitors can indulge in Lindt’s delectable Crema Gelata Ice Cream, sip on its signature rich hot or chilled chocolate drinks – all made with the finest Lindt chocolate, or curate their own personalised selection of favourites from the Lindor Pick-and-Mix station.

Lindt Master Chocolatier Thomas Schnetzler will be crafting fresh Lindt truffles on-site between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th April, bringing the craftsmanship and passion of Lindt to life.

One Of Five Master Chocolatiers

Lindt Master Chocolatier Thomas trained in Switzerland as a Pâtissier and Confiseur at the renowned Confiserie Reber in a town called Schaffhausen, approximately 50km north of Zürich. During his intense three-year training, Thomas learnt the craft of creating fine Pralinés and Truffles, chocolate specialities and chocolate pieces from Master Chocolatier Laurent Perriraz, under whom he trained.

Lindt Master Chocolatier Thomas Schnetzler.

Thomas joined Lindt & Sprüngli over two decades ago and as one of only five Lindt Master Chocolatiers in the world, Thomas is passionately involved in working on new Lindt products and is an integral part of spreading the Lindt message. His lifelong mission is exploring new heights of chocolate indulgence.

“Being here for the opening and showcasing the artistry of chocolate-making is an incredible opportunity. For me, the greatest joy comes from crafting moments of happiness that people can savour, share, and take home with them,” says Schnetzler.

180 Year Swiss Heritage

Chocolate lovers are encouraged to visit and discover what sets Lindt apart and why Lindt is loved all around the world. Lindt is known for the smooth melting Lindor truffles, the iconic Lindt Gold Bunny and the rich flavours of Excellence blocks.

With 180-year history behind them and rich Swiss heritage, Lindt now has more than 2,500 products in more than 120 countries worldwide. Lindt has pioneered the premium chocolate market and mastered the art of gourmet chocolate making, embodying the passion of its Swiss Master Chocolatiers.

Store details: Lindt Chocolate Shop, Queenstown

Opening Date & Time:  5th April 2025, 10:00 AM

Location: 1/13 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300 (Corner of Camp & Ballarat St).