Buyer for Jaffas, Pineapple Lumps, Buzz Bars and Pinky Bars?

The annual Dunedin Jaffa race may use Jaffas from Australia if a local buyer for the product can't be found. Photo/ODT

Possible buyers have come forward for Kiwi favourites Jaffas, Pineapple Lumps, Buzz Bars and Pinky Bars.

Today was D-Day for the sweets, with production set to go to Australia if a local buyer can't be found.

Mondelez, which owns Cadbury, has been trying to find a local manufacturer to take on production, following news it would be closing its Dunedin factory next year.

"Mondelez is reviewing the expressions of interest received and will be able to provide more information and updates in due course once these have been considered," a spokeswoman said this evening.

Earlier in the week E tu union's national director of industries Neville Donaldson said the offer from Mondelez was a rare opportunity to keep some of the axed jobs from the Cadbury factory, and its products, in New Zealand.

"This represents a chance for ongoing work for E tu members currently employed at Mondelez," Neville said.

"It's an opportunity for employers to increase their operation and employ loyal and skilled staff to produce the product. That's a unique situation.

"Mondelez haven't made any commitment beyond checking out the possibilities, but there is a glimmer of hope for our dedicated members."

Supermarket operator Foodstuffs said today that it would support any business that decided to take on manufacturing of the products, calling on companies to "get off the fence" and work to keep manufacturing in New Zealand.

"If you think you have what it takes to help us save [these products] for New Zealand, we'll get right behind you," the company said.

"We'll work with you to help you get set up to sell to us, cram our shelves with them, and we'll then help promote them."

Chocolate fans will have to wait to see if the products will stay in New Zealand, or if the Kiwi icons will be imported from Australia.