Important: Factory Tour Dress Code

To join the full factory tour, all visitors must wear long-sleeved tops, full-length trousers, and enclosed, flat-soled shoes.

Explore NZ’s Iconic Sugar Factory

Step inside the country’s only sugar factory for an up-close look at how raw sugar transforms into the products you know and love. Led by our knowledgeable guides, you’ll walk through the heart of the factory, surrounded by working machinery and rich history.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• Why Birkenhead was chosen as the home of New Zealand’s only sugar factory
• The journey of raw sugar from arrival to the final packaged product
• A chance to taste our sweet creations and see the famous sugar mountain up close!

Your tour includes a ride on the Chelsea Bay Train but be prepared - there are 80 steps to navigate throughout the factory. Due to this, we’re unable to accommodate wheelchairs, crutches, walking sticks, or pushchairs.

Key Tour Details

• Duration: 1 hour
• Arrival: Please check in at reception 15 minutes before your tour starts
• Photography: Phones and cameras are not allowed, but we provide secure keypad lockers for storage
• Age Restrictions: Minimum age is 5 years, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult (babies and under-5s cannot be carried)
• Physical Requirements: There are 80 stairs in total, divided into shorter flights (10-20 steps at a time) with handrails. Walking sticks and walkers are not permitted
• Allergies: Bees are sometimes present - please bring an EpiPen if required
• Tour Availability: Tour times vary - check the calendar for available sessions
• Group Size: A maximum of 18 adults per tour
• Safety Gear: We provide a safety vest, hairnet, helmet, and glasses for all visitors
• Dress Code: Your skin must be covered—please wear a long-sleeved top, full-length trousers, and enclosed flat shoes. If you arrive in the wrong attire, we have a limited supply of cover-ups available

Before booking, please read our terms and conditions in full.

Planning Your Visit to Chelsea Bay

• Getting Here: Parking is free but can fill up quickly during holidays. Use Google Maps to locate Colonial Road and allow extra time for arrival.
• Café: Our on-site café, Sugar, is a popular spot- book a table in advance to secure your spot.
• Interactive Zone: Explore the Chelsea Interactive Room, where you can learn more about our history and enjoy a fun digital baking game.
• Outdoor Fun: Bring the family to enjoy the playground and grassy picnic area. A weekend coffee cart is also available.
• Scenic Walks: Ask at reception for a bush walk map to explore the nearby trails.