Hoddys Fruit Co has expanded into berry growing at its Hope orchard in New Zealand, establishing seven hectares of strawberries and raspberries alongside its apple crop.
The business, part of the RD8 Fresh Produce Group, is developing the berry area for sister company The Fresh Berry Company. It marks the company’s first strawberry and raspberry cultivation in the South Island, with the fruit primarily intended for South Island distribution.
Seven hectares previously planted with apple trees up to 35 years old have been cleared for the berry operation. The first strawberry harvest is expected in late October, with the season continuing until late May. The perennial raspberry crop was planted last week, with the first harvest expected in February.
The berries are being grown under seven hectares of tunnels. Hoddys will continue growing apples on 37 hectares alongside the new berry crop.
According to general manager Jos Bell, The Fresh Berry Company’s current supply is primarily grown in the North Island, with some fruit transported across Cook Strait. The South Island crop is intended to shorten the supply chain to customers in the region.
Fruit will primarily move through distribution centres in Christchurch for supply across the South Island, as well as directly to some local stores. Depending on market demand, berries could also be shipped to the North Island at certain times of the year.
The strawberry harvest is expected to require around 40 locally recruited pickers from late October.
Frontpage photo:
© Romrodinka | Dreamstime
Source: topsouthnow.co.nz
Publication date:
Tue 22 Sep 2026
