NZ Industry Icon Celebrates 30 Years with Business Expansion

Celebrating 30 years at the forefront of New Zealand’s cigar industry, Grant “The Cigar Merchant” Ovenden is proud to announce a pivotal evolution in his business operations. To mark this milestone, his tobacco-related business will now operate as two distinct entities, enhancing focus and delivering even greater value to both consumers and trade partners.

Canteros New Zealand will remain the country’s trusted retail tobacconist, dedicated to offering discerning customers a world-class range of premium (non-Cuban) cigars, pipe tobaccos, and accessories.

In parallel, Ovenden is launching Long White Cloud Distributors, a specialized import, distribution, and wholesale company catering to tobacconists, specialty retailers, and the hospitality sector across New Zealand. 

Long White Cloud Distribution represents a curated portfolio of world-renowned brands, including: Kafie 1901 Cigars, Micallef Cigars, J.C. Newman Cigar Co., Arturo Fuente & Meerapfel, Rocky Patel, Perdomo, Casa Carrillo, Fratello, Drew Estate, Joya de Nicaragua, Padron, Plasencia, Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust, Oliva, AJ Fernandez, HVC, and Ashton. The company also distributes leading pipe tobaccos such as Lane, Peterson, Amphora, Cornell & Diehl, and G.L. Pease, as well as smoking pipes from Brigham, Peterson & Savinelli.

“This new chapter allows each business to operate with clarity and precision,” says Grant Ovenden. “Retail customers will continue to enjoy the expertise and personal service Canteros is known for, while our trade partners will benefit from dedicated wholesale support, faster service, and access to one of the most comprehensive selections of premium cigars and tobacco products in New Zealand.”

As part of the expansion, Long White Cloud Distribution has secured warehousing facilities in the United States of America to leverage buying power and distribution to New Zealand; with expansion planned into Australia shortly.

With this strategic move, Canteros and Long White Cloud Distribution reaffirm their commitment to quality, integrity, and the vibrant community of cigar and pipe enthusiasts throughout New Zealand.

Trade & Distribution: www.lwc-distributors.nz

Retail: www.canteros.co.nz