Queenstown Cookie Muncher visits Weta Workshop 'doctor' for some TLC
, Mia Patterson (2) and Campbell Guiney (3) deliver their get well cards for Cookie Muncher med res.JPG)
The world’s first Cookie Bar in Queenstown has proved so popular with visitors and locals it has suffered its first casualty just six months after opening.
The innovative new Cookie Time store and Cookie Bar opened in May, a showcase outlet designed as a world-class retail experience the company plans to franchise throughout the world.
Greeting visitors at the door has been an interactive Cookie Muncher designed by the clever bods at the multi-award-winning Weta Workshop.
But he’s proved so popular with children and adults alike – with his distinctive tummy button (that reacts in a very particular way when you push it) and rolling eyes – that he’s having to pay a visit to the Weta Workshop doctors for some TLC to help him make it through the busy summer to come.
“He’s got a bit of a sore tummy and sore eyes at the moment,” says Cookie Time general manager Lincoln Booth. “Everyone who meets him wants to give him a big hug and push his tummy button, but perhaps some of his younger friends need to be a bit more gentle with him.
“He shouldn’t be away for too long and I’m sure a few ‘get well’ cards will help him feel better soon.”
Cookie Muncher’s absence has already been noticed by some local young fans who have dropped off cards and messages at the store.
Cookie Time began 27 years ago, delivering fresh cookies to dairies in Christchurch. The company has since grown to become New Zealand's favourite cookie brand. The Queenstown store, chosen for its high number of national and international visitors, has proved a huge success in its first five months of operation.