The 18th carnival will be launched in the Octagon today.
In March, Mondelez International made a U-turn on a decision to seek ratepayer cash for the carnival following criticism over the company’s decision to close the Dunedin factory and cut 320 jobs.
Mondelez International spokesman Jake Hatton said the company had not made a decision about the future of the carnival, or Cadbury World.
"While we’ve yet to make a final decision on the future of Cadbury World, we’re continuing to work on some really exciting plans for its redevelopment and planned move into the historic Old Dairy Building which we are currently refurbishing."
A decision would be announced soon, he said.
"Right now we’re focused on delivering another successful carnival that provides the thousands of attendees with an entertaining experience, while raising much needed funds for our local charity partners."
The company spent about $200,000 on the carnival each year and it had an economic benefit of about $2million for the city, Mr Hatton said.
Charities including Parents Centre of New Zealand, Make-A-Wish Foundation and Surf Life Saving New Zealand have benefited from $100,000 donated by the carnival to charity partners each year.
Cadbury World events manager Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana said about 53,000 people attended events during the week long carnival last year. Despite its uncertain future she hoped this year’s carnival would be just as popular.
"We started the carnival 18 years ago, and every year for 18 years we have come together and put the carnival on to celebrate chocolate in winter and to put something on for the community that we are proud of, so nothing will change this year."
The carnival, which offers more than 30 events, would open in the Octagon today with free chocolate and activities for the public.
On Friday more than 20,000 Jaffas will roll down Baldwin St for the Jaffa race.
Chocolate carnival
• Free opening event in the Octagon today, 3-6pm.
• Free giant Jaffa ball rolling sculpture making. Otago Museum July 15-July 23.
• Free Cadbury fun run, tomorrow, 12.30pm.
