at Brenton Lodge Whangamata:

These getaways are for the ultimate chocolate lover, who wants to indulge their passion and learn hands-on to create hand crafted truffles and perfect pralines.

The getaway includes a 2 night stay in one of our suites, breakfast each morning and of course lots of chocolate. These packages are perfect for an anniversary, birthday, special occasion or just a weekend break.

Itinerary

Friday  Arrive at Brenton Lodge, check in from 2pm onwards.  A light supper will be served from 7pm. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

Saturday – breakfast from 8am with the first session of the chocolate course starting at 10am, you will be given an informative introduction to the history of chocolate , with different chocolates to taste and compare. We move on learning to create our very own hand-crafted truffles, making a selection of beautiful chocolate ganache, this will allow you to participate hands on, mixing, piping, cutting, coating  scrumptious truffles. You will each make approximately 50 truffles.

Lunch will be served between 12 and 1pm, and the days class will end around 4pm.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy, allowing you to try the wonderful local cafes and restaurants, bars and beaches.

Sunday – breakfast from 8am, with the chocolate workshop commencing at 10am.  You will be shown how to make perfect moulded chocolates, they will be made with a variety of gorgeous fillings, (including alcohol), and using some colour techniques, allowing the art of experimentation to begin – unlock your inner artist. Once set your chocolates and truffles are ready for packaging.

Chocolate Indulgence Getaway : $NZ 950 includes a 2 night stay in one of our suites, breakfast each morning, lunch and of course lots of chocolate...

To book simply contact us with your preferred getaway date:
Brenton Lodge 2 Brenton Place Whangamata, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand Phone: 00 64 7 865 8400 Email: info@brentonlodge.co.nz Dates and availability are also available online.

“Hi Sallie We had a ball making chocolate(s) with you. Think I will be back for more – mine didn’t last long.” Julie  May 2011

“Traveling thousands of miles on the plane, was definitely well worth the trip to make chocolates. This has been a wonderful experience for us and most of all unforgettable”. Elaine and James, San Jose. Sept 2010.

Chocolate FAQ's

Who takes the chocolate classes:
The classes are taken by Sallie Hooper, an experienced chocolatier since 2001.  Our company has made handmade chocolates and truffles for reputable chocolate retailers, 5 star hotels, corporates, weddings, events and Air New Zealand premium class passengers up until March 2009, when it was decided to use our experience and talent to open a chocolate school, aimed at chocolate lovers wishing to learn the art of chocolate making.  Sallie is constantly updating her skills and is looking forward to introducing participants to the wonders of the latest techniques using colour with chocolate

How much is a Chocolate Indulgence Getaway:
$950.00 nz inclusive of gst and includes, 2 nights accommodation, 2 full breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 supper and chocolate making sessions on Saturday and Sunday , approx 50 truffles, and 50 pralines packaged to go home.

Where do the chocolate classes take place:
All chocolate sessions take place in our fully operational registered chocolate kitchen, at Brenton Lodge.

What dates are available:
All dates and availability are available online.

Do I need to bring anything with me:
We provide everything needed on the day, but please wear shoes suitable for working in a commercial kitchen (an apron will be provided)

Can I bring someone to watch:
Unfortunately we do not have the space for spectators, but if you wish to bring a partner/friend to share your chocolate indulgence getaway this is possible –
no charge for a partner, not participating in class.
Enquire at info@brentonlodge.co.nz for the cost of a partner participating in class.

Is this class suitable for children?
No – this class is not suitable for children, but we make an effort to include chocolate’s suitable for children to enjoy, in your take home chocolates.

Do you sell chocolates?
All enquiries for chocolates, truffles, couverture – please email info@brentonlodge.co.nz