Frequently Asked Questions
General Baking
What kind of icing do you use?
We use American buttercream as our standard icing. We do, however, have some of the cakes using ganache or Swiss meringue buttercream. This will be noted in the selected cake description.
What cake flavours do you offer?
We have a set range of 8 signature cake flavours, which you can view here. Our flavours go with the seasons so the signature flavours update 4 times a year. For custom cakes, we’re happy to create a special flavour where possible - just flick us an email to discuss further with as much detail as possible.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, many of our cakes can be made gluten-free.
Please note:
- Some vegan options cannot be made gluten-free (see cake range page for details).
- All cakes are made in a kitchen that handles gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts, so there is a risk of cross-contamination.
How are your cake portions sized?
Our party cake servings are based on dessert-sized portions (1” x 2” wide by 4” high).
If you need coffee-sized serves, simply double the number.
Example: A 6” wide cake, 6” high = 15 dessert serves or 30 coffee serves.
How do I book a wedding cake?
You can book by email or by scheduling a cake consultation.
Please note:
- We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance for weddings during our busy season (Nov–April).
- We only take on a limited number of weddings each year.
- We close over Christmas as we have a young family and it’s important for us all to take a well-deserved break!
How much notice do I need for an order?
How much notice do I need for an order?
For online store orders, we need:
- Minimum 4 days' notice
For custom cakes:
- We require 2 week’s notice, depending on the design.
- For last-minute requests, email us ASAP and we’ll do our best depending on our capacity.
What’s the shelf life of your cakes?
Shelf life varies by cake type:
- Cupcakes: Best eaten on the day or the following day.
- Uniced/semi naked cakes: Best within 2 days.
- Fully iced cakes: Can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Fresh flowers on cakes last up to 2 days.
Cakes are always most delicious when fresh!
How should I store my cake?
Most of our cakes are butter-based, so:
- Transport chilled, but let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 hours before serving.
- Larger cakes may need longer out of the fridge.
- We’ll give you specific storage instructions when you pick up your cake—feel free to get in touch if you have any specific questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Delivery and Pick up
How much does delivery cost?
Delivery is a flat $30 across Canterbury.
How much notice do I need to give?
We require at least one week's notice for all deliveries to allow time for preparation and courier booking.
Are your products insured during delivery?
All our products are perishable goods. This means they are not covered by the courier for damage, unless the driver is proven responsible. We will do our best with the packaging, but movement in transit can still happen.
What if no one is home at delivery time?
What if no one is home at delivery time?
Please ensure someone is home to receive the order. If:
- The property is inaccessible or has a security gate, make sure to include this info when ordering the cake and also leave a contact number.
- If delivery is unsuccessful and returned to us, you can collect it from Harpers House Kitchen in West Melton. Any re-delivery costs will be at the customer's expense.
Do you deliver nationwide?
Not at this stage however we hope to in the near future.
We do not offer refunds for products damaged due to being left in the heat. This is your responsibility to ensure it’s stored correctly.
Can you deliver two-tier or large cakes?
Two-tier and larger cakes cannot be sent via courier. It's just too risky on our end and we’d prefer to deliver ourselves or have it collected to insure it gets to where it needs to all in one piece.
If you require delivery for a tiered cake, please get in touch with us directly to arrange transport options.
Do you offer a collection option?
Yes, you're welcome to pick up your online orders from the Harpers House Kitchen at 89 Iris Taylor Avenue, West Melton, Christchurch on the following days/times:
- Thursdays between 10am and 2pm
- Friday's between 10am and 2pm
- Saturday's between 8:30am and 10:30am
At check out you will be directed to select delivery or pick up options at your preferred time. To arrange a collection outside of these times, please contact Andi directly.