WaHiki, a New Zealand producer of dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan coconut-based ice cream and yoghurt products, is exploring potential collaborations with Philippine firms, according to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).
PEZA said Wednesday that two other New Zealand-based companies have also expressed interest in investing in the Philippines, particularly in dairy processing and tourism-oriented retirement estates.
The agency did not identify the firms but said the investment interest emerged from meetings between a Philippine delegation and New Zealand business stakeholders earlier this week.
WaHiki, which means “time out”, markets coconut-based frozen desserts designed to encourage consumers to pause, recharge, and enjoy simple pleasures. The company said its products offer indulgence without compromise, featuring vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and low-calorie options made from premium ingredients.
According to PEZA, the growing interest from New Zealand firms highlights expanding opportunities for economic cooperation between the Philippines and New Zealand.
The agency added that New Zealand remains a promising market for Philippine trade and investment promotion efforts. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached a record NZD1.63 billion in the year ending March 2025.
New Zealand has also identified the Philippines as among the economies projected to double in size between 2023 and 2033 and emerge as a top 20 global economy by 2050, underscoring rising investor confidence in the country’s long-term growth prospects.
