We started picking blueberries in November and the season will last to the end of March. Last season was the best ever, and the berries were exceptionally good quality. We put this down to Bill's use of some new organic fertilisers. Avocados will stay on the trees all year, and will not ripen until they are picked. The season starts in June, and we have a reasonable fruit set for 2013 in spite of all the wind and rain during flowering.
William & Grace Wright (Owners) 094068825, 0272758142,
We have reluctantly decided it is time to retire, so Kaiblue is up for sale. This is a 4.5Ha property on a sealed road, 3.5kms off state highway 1 in the Far North. We have spent 20 years developing it from a swamp into a productive orchard. Along with blueberries and avocados we have planted over 50 different fruit trees, so every day we can pick our own fruit, including citrus, pineapples, pip and stone fruits, pomegranites, pepinos. We do not use any toxic sprays on our trees or fruit, and use organic fertilisers, although not organic certified. The back boundary of the property is a tidal estuary which can accomodate a 12m launch, which can get you to the harbour in 5 minutes, and the open sea in 25 minutes. Very good fishing. We envisage the business selling as a going concern with all the equipment needed to continue operating as we have done, and are happy to share our knowledge and experience with the buyer.
Blueberry picking is half way through for this season. Last year was a very good one, and we are looking forward to an even better supply this season. The new organic fertilizer that Bill used has really paid off. We sell everything we grow direct to our customers, mostly at the Kerikeri Farmers Market and the Kaitaia Saturday market.
Blueberries are couriered around Northland weekly. If you wish to be sent berries, email us early in the week so we can put them on the courier on Wednesday. Ask about a bulk price if you want some to freeze for later.
The blueberry wine project is going well. Lots of friends and neighbours are dropping in to have tastes and give encouragement. Once all the appropriate paperwork is done we will get it on the market.
The avocado trees are recovering well after the winter. The fruit set for 2013 is looking marvelous.
Any time you might be in our area you are most welcome to drop in and browse around. We are around most of the time, but give us a ring first to be sure. Or come and make yourself known at Kerikeri or Kaitaia markets, maybe have breakfast with us. We make the best toasted sandwiches on Vogels bread, and delicious blueberry hotcakes smothered in cream and berry sauce.
