Pic’s Peanut Butter World

A peanut-butter empire is growing in Nelson. Some 20 years ago, Pic Picot was sailing in the Bay of Islands and rowed across to an American yacht for breakfast. There they served him “healthy-style” peanut butter. But the only thing healthy about it was its lack of sugar. As the years went by, Pic saw more and more companies sweetening their products. He got so frustrated with the taste, he went out and bought a 10kg bag of peanuts and started roasting his own. And grinding. Last year, Pic's moved into a purpose-built factory with café and play area. Pic himself is the closest the city has to a Willy Wonka, and his place is perfect for seeing how peanut butter is made. 49 Saxton Road West, Stoke. (03)

544 8402, picspeanutbutter.com/nz