In August, Poutama was able to support Kirikiriroa-based Gumdrops Desserts, a whānau business owned by a mother, son and daughter combo who are all active in the business operations. Donna & Dillon Williams & Stevie Tkachuk all whakapapa to Ngāti Tūrangitukua (Ngāti Tūwharetoa).
The business makes and sells fresh kiwi desserts like Pavlova, Steam Pudding, Trifle, Ambrosia and numerous Cheesecakes.
Recently, Gumdrops Desserts celebrated two years of operating. Donna founded the business, Stevie was the first business partner on opening and Dillon joined the team after the first year.
Back in September 2020, Radio NZ interviewed Donna about her experience of losing her job and opening the business – all during COVID-19. It is a story of adapting to COVID circumstances, whānau and resilience. The full article and video content can be reviewed here.
Poutama’s funding helped to support the costs associated with the building fit-out of their second location – Gumdrops Drive-Thru Dessert Shop.
Learn more about Gumdrops delicious offerings at Facebook and Instagram.
