The People's Choice - Vote now!

About My Business

Fanciful Cakes by Merenia is a proudly Māori-owned boutique cakery based in Rotorua, New Zealand, renowned for creating luxurious, trendsetting treats with heart. Founded by Merenia Scally Walker, a self-taught cake artist and mother of five, the business has grown from humble beginnings into a bold and recognisable brand known for its innovation, creativity, and community spirit. What sets Fanciful Cakes apart is not just the stunning, handcrafted cakes—but the unique product ranges like the signature Boujee Bars, which have earned a cult following across Aotearoa. From custom celebration cakes to cabinet slices and curated dessert experiences, everything we create is a reflection of artistic flair, quality ingredients, and cultural pride. More than just a bakery, Fanciful Cakes is a story of resilience, empowerment, and growth. Built during challenging times with no formal business training, it now employs a talented team of wāhine, supports local collaborations, and plays an active role in community events and sponsorships. We continue to grow with vision, grit, and a sprinkle of sass—proving that success doesn’t have to come from the traditional path. Fanciful Cakes is not just about sweet treats; it’s about inspiring others to dream big, push boundaries, and take up space.

Why We Should Win The Peoples Choice Award

Fanciful Cakes by Merenia isn’t just a cakery—it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Based in Rotorua, we’ve built a brand that’s known for bold flavour combinations, stunning presentation, and an unapologetically original vibe that people connect with on a deeper level. We’re more than just beautiful cakes. From our over-the-top Boujee Bars to our luxe celebration cakes and cabinet creations, everything we make is full of flavour, fun, and flair. Our customers don’t just come in for a treat—they come in for the experience. What makes Fanciful Cakes stand out is our authenticity. We show up online and in-store with realness, humour, and heart. Whether it’s sharing behind-the-scenes kitchen chaos or spotlighting the incredible wāhine on our team, our brand is relatable, raw, and deeply rooted in whanaungatanga. We connect with people—not just as customers, but as part of our journey. Fanciful Cakes is proudly Māori-owned, wāhine-led, and community driven. We’ve grown from humble beginnings into a strong, recognisable business that gives back wherever possible—through local sponsorships, mentorship, employment opportunities, and uplifting other small businesses along the way. So why vote for us? Because we’ve created something original, brave, and full of personality in a crowded industry. Because we lead with aroha and authenticity, not just sales. Because we’ve worked hard to build a business that’s about more than baking—it’s about empowerment, representation, and dreaming big. Because when you support us, you're supporting a business that’s grounded in community and built with soul. If you’re all about delicious treats, powerful stories thats us!