Eltham

Why Everything's Better with a Side of Eltham Cheese!

Discover why this tiny NZ town is the secret sauce behind McDonald's in the Asia Pacific – it’s all about cheese! 🧀🍔

Eltham, a charming little town in Taranaki, might not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s a crucial player in the fast-food world! Nestled in the lush green landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island, Eltham proudly dubs itself the cheese capital of the country. But what’s the connection with Maccas? Well, it turns out that Eltham’s renowned cheese is not only a beloved local staple, but a key ingredient in the mélange of flavours that has catapulted McDonald's iconic menu into our hearts—and stomachs—across the Asia Pacific. So next time you sink your teeth into a delicious Big Mac or munch on a McMuffin, you’re getting a taste of Eltham!

The town is home to several thriving dairy farms, which supply the creamy, delectable cheese that McDonald's loves to incorporate in their dishes. Those cheesy bites we all know and love are crafted using fresh milk from local cows, and it’s the unique blend of rich pastures and expert dairy farmers that makes Eltham cheese so special. This delightful connection between a humble town and a giant corporation speaks volumes about the way regional produce can reach international acclaim, quietly influencing our favourite fast-food experiences.

Not only is Eltham an essential cheese supplier, but it holds strong ties to the local community and culture. Townspeople take immense pride in their cheesemaking, hosting annual cheese festivals that celebrate their creamy creations. Not to mention, they embrace the narrative of their town being the unsung hero behind McDonald's success story in the region—a tale that is as rich and thick as its finest cheese sauce!

As if you needed another reason to enjoy your meal, consider this: the vibrant farmers of Eltham keep the wheels of both the local and global dairy economy spinning smoothly. By investing in sustainable practices and maintaining high-quality products, they not only flavour meals around the world but also support their local economy and way of life. So, the next time you enjoy your favourite McDonald’s treat, raise a toast (or cheeseburger) to Eltham, New Zealand—a small town with a giant impact!

Did you know that New Zealand is one of the largest exporters of dairy products in the world? Eltham is at the heart of this industry! And here’s another fun fact: Eltham used to be a major railway town, profoundly connecting the broader region and aiding its economic development. Cheese, railroads, and McDonald's—talk about a recipe for success!