When people hear the name “the Whittakers,” they often think of one of two things: a famous chocolate brand from New Zealand or a unique West Virginian family that made headlines. That’s right — there are two very different “Whittakers” making waves in different corners of the world. Whether you're curious about the chocolate or the family, this article dives into both, giving you the full scoop without the fluff.

One group of Whittakers lives in the hills of West Virginia and became well-known thanks to a viral video and media coverage. The other Whittakers are a beloved chocolate maker in New Zealand, known for smooth textures and rich flavors. Both have their own stories, and both spark interest — whether it’s for their uniqueness, their taste, or the way they’ve captured public attention.

So, if you’ve ever wondered why the Whittakers keep showing up in searches, videos, or even your shopping cart, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down, starting with a quick look at who and what the Whittakers really are.

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Table of Contents

• The Whittakers Family from West Virginia
• Whittakers Chocolate – New Zealand’s Sweet Pride
• What’s the Difference Between the Whittakers?
• Where to Buy Whittakers Chocolate
• FAQs About the Whittakers

The Whittakers Family from West Virginia

The Whittakers from West Virginia are a large, extended family who live deep in the Appalachian Mountains. They gained public attention after a viral video interview with Mark Laita, a photographer and filmmaker. His video gave viewers an unexpected look into their lives, sparking both fascination and controversy.

Some say the Whittakers live off the grid, in a way, with their own traditions and lifestyle that many find hard to relate to. Their story is complex — part curiosity, part mystery, and definitely not what most people expect from modern American life.

While some viewers were shocked, others found the Whittakers intriguing and even endearing in their own way. Laita reportedly gave them $100,000 after the video went viral, a move that raised eyebrows and questions. It’s unclear what his exact intentions were, but it definitely made the Whittakers a household name in certain corners of the internet.

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Who Are the Whittakers?

The Whittaker family includes dozens of people, many of whom are related through marriage, birth, or adoption. Some members live together in a compound of sorts, while others live nearby. They’ve lived in West Virginia for generations, and many say they prefer life on their own terms — even if it looks a bit different to outsiders.

There’s a lot of speculation about the family, including claims of inbreeding. It’s a sensitive topic, but one that comes up often when people talk about the Whittakers. Some compare the family’s genetic makeup to that of royalty, oddly enough — like the Norwegian royal family, for example. Whether or not these claims are accurate, they definitely fuel ongoing conversations.

Controversy and Public Reaction

When the Whittakers first hit the internet, people had strong reactions. Some called it exploitation. Others saw it as a glimpse into a different kind of life. The family’s appearance, speech, and behavior were unlike anything most people had ever seen on camera.

One of the more talked-about members is a man named Kenneth, who seems to be one of the more coherent voices in the family. There’s also another man, often referred to as “Timmy,” who some say has a childlike cognitive ability. Their interactions have led to a lot of speculation and, unfortunately, some mocking.

Still, the Whittakers remain a mystery to many. They rarely speak publicly, and the videos and interviews that do exist often raise more questions than they answer.

Whittakers Chocolate – New Zealand’s Sweet Pride

On the other side of the globe, Whittakers is a well-known chocolate brand in New Zealand. Founded in 1896, Whittakers Chocolate has been a staple in Kiwi households for generations. Known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, Whittakers is often considered superior to other big-name brands like Cadbury.

While Whittakers chocolate isn’t as easy to find outside of New Zealand, it’s a hit with travelers and chocolate lovers alike. Some people even pack extra luggage space just to bring back as much Whittakers chocolate as they can carry — like 18kg worth, if you believe some reports.

If you’ve ever tasted Whittakers chocolate, you might understand why it’s such a favorite. It’s often described as creamier, more flavorful, and just overall better than other chocolates on the market. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, which is a big plus for many people these days.

What Makes Whittakers Chocolate Special?

Whittakers chocolate stands out for a few reasons. First, it’s made locally in New Zealand using high-quality ingredients. Second, it has a smoother texture than many other chocolates, which makes each bite feel luxurious. Third, the flavors are bold and rich without being overpowering — just right for most chocolate lovers.

Compared to Cadbury, which used to be a favorite for many, Whittakers is often described as “more chocolatey” and less sugary. Some say Cadbury has lost its edge over the years, while Whittakers has stayed true to its roots.

Why Is Whittakers Chocolate So Popular Overseas?

If you’ve ever visited New Zealand, you might’ve noticed how much locals love Whittakers. But it’s not just Kiwis who appreciate this chocolate — it’s also popular with travelers and expats who want to bring a taste of New Zealand back home.

One reason for this popularity is the quality. Another is the limited availability outside of New Zealand, which makes it feel a bit like a hidden gem. That’s why some people go out of their way to stock up on Whittakers when they visit, often packing extra suitcases just for chocolate.

What’s the Difference Between the Whittakers?

It’s easy to get confused — two very different Whittakers with the same name. But once you know what to look for, it’s not hard to tell them apart.

The Whittakers from West Virginia are a family, not a product. Their story is one of isolation, curiosity, and controversy. Meanwhile, Whittakers Chocolate is a brand, not a person, and it’s all about smooth, creamy, high-quality chocolate.

So, if you’re looking up the Whittakers and see references to chocolate, you’re probably dealing with the New Zealand side of things. If you see videos or articles about a family in the woods, you’re diving into the West Virginia Whittakers.

Whittakers NZ vs Whittakers US – The Confusion

One common question is: “Whittakers NZ ≠ Whittakers AUS — I need to understand.” That’s a fair point. While Whittakers is a New Zealand brand, it’s sometimes confused with other chocolate brands in Australia and elsewhere.

Whittakers doesn’t have a major presence in Australia, which can lead to confusion for travelers or online shoppers. So if you’re in Australia and looking for Whittakers chocolate, you might have to order it online or bring some back from a trip to New Zealand.

Where to Buy Whittakers Chocolate

Buying Whittakers chocolate outside of New Zealand can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Here are a few tips for getting your hands on some of that smooth, rich chocolate:

• Look for Whittakers at specialty chocolate shops or international grocery stores.
• Check online retailers that ship from New Zealand or offer imported goods.
• Bring some back with you if you’re traveling to New Zealand — just make sure to check baggage allowances and customs rules.

If you’re flying overseas soon and want to bring Whittakers chocolate as a gift, it’s a good idea to check which airlines allow food items in checked luggage. Some people have successfully brought back 18kg of Whittakers chocolate, so it’s definitely possible if you plan ahead.

Best Places to Buy Whittakers Online

If you can’t make it to New Zealand anytime soon, here are a few online options for getting Whittakers chocolate delivered to your door:

1. Whittakers Official Site – The best place to learn about their products and find store locators.
2. International online retailers like Amazon or specialty chocolate sites — just be sure to check reviews before ordering.
3. Online gift shops that specialize in New Zealand products — some of these offer Whittakers as part of curated gift boxes.

Keep in mind that shipping costs can add up, especially if you're ordering from outside of New Zealand. It’s often cheaper to buy in bulk if you’re planning to share with friends or family.

FAQs About the Whittakers

Are the Whittakers from West Virginia related to the chocolate brand?

No, the Whittakers from West Virginia and Whittakers Chocolate from New Zealand are not related. They just happen to share the same last name, which leads to a lot of confusion online.

Is Whittakers chocolate available in the U.S.?

Whittakers chocolate isn’t widely available in the U.S., but it can be found in some specialty stores or ordered online through international retailers. It’s definitely not as common as Cadbury or Hershey’s, but it has a loyal following among those who’ve tried it.

Why do people love Whittakers chocolate so much?

People love Whittakers chocolate because of its rich flavor, smooth texture, and high-quality ingredients. It’s often described as more chocolatey than other brands and has a loyal fan base both in New Zealand and abroad.

So whether you're curious about the mysterious Whittakers family or just want to try some amazing chocolate, you now have a better idea of what the Whittakers are all about. And if you're planning a trip to New Zealand, don’t forget to pack a little extra in your suitcase — you’ll probably want to bring some Whittakers back with you.