In 1898, Norman Harper Bell had a vision to create a better tea for the country he called home - a passion and dedication we share today. For almost 120 years, we’ve been dedicated to exploring the world of tea & blending locally for a consistent taste. Our BrewMasters source the best teas, fruits & herbs from across the globe, to craft a range of teas specifically for New Zealanders tastes.
Norman Harper Bell was the founder of Bell Tea. Norman Harper Bell’s driving passion was work. Not only an excellent tea blender, he was also an astute businessman, understanding the many essentials of marketing a first class product, good distribution, customer retention and public relations.
Bell Tea has operated during the turbulent years of two World Wars and the Great Depression, each having a profound effect on its fortunes.
Today Bell Tea is committed to bringing New Zealand new tastes in tea. Drinking tea has been part of New Zealand culture for so long and Bell Tea is proud to continue to provide a range of refreshing great tasting teas for every occasion.
Robert Wilson founded R. Wilson & Company, later to go into partnership with Norman Harper Bell.
Norman Harper Bell arrived from Melbourne to join the Tea Department of R. Wilson & Company.
Bell Tea introduced and trademark registered.
Norman Harper Bell introduces coupons to the New Zealand market, offering gifts as an incentive to purchase Bell Tea.
Norman Harper Bell commences business as a tea merchant.
Norman Harper Bell dies of diabetes and his son Norman Harper Bell Jr. becomes Acting Manager. Bell Tea is registered in November. NZ population is 1.1 million, and tea consumption is 6.97lb per capita.
Hope St property purchased in Dunedin.
Hope factory in full operation.
Coupon Trading Act takes effect, making it illegal to redeem coupons for anything other than cash or discount.
Loose leaf tea production changed from tins to cardboard packaging.
World War II.
Bell Tea horoscopes appeared in newspapers every Monday as lead advertising campaign.
Amber Tips purchased from Fletcher Humphreys.
First television advertising campaign for Bell Tea.
Auckland factory built and produciton commenced. Decimal currency introduced.
Teabags introduced into New Zealand. Edglets and Tiger tea brands purchased from J. Rattray & Son Ltd.
Bell teabags launched
Twinnings agreement for Bell Tea to act as New Zealand agent including local production.
Introduciton of new eco-friendly packaging for teabags using barrier proofing technology to retain freshness.
Launch of Bell Pure Ceylon. NZ Population 4.1 million. Tea consumption 0.98kg per capita.
Launch of Bell Decaf. Acquisition of Burton Hollis Coffee Company.
Launch of Bell Green Tea.
Launch of India Origin Tea.