Horticulture
Haumako, the Trust’s commercial entity, develops and grows horticultural products for the export market. Tātau invests directly in horticulture to further diversify our economy, foster sustainable regional growth, and create valuable local jobs.
This investment also supports local businesses, and sets up Wairoa as a key contributor to the horticultural and food industry across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. By expanding the horticulture industry in Wairoa, Tātau encourages better use of Māori-owned land by sharing opportunities, learning, knowledge gained in our own orchards.
Caring for the land is paramount, with efforts directed towards runoff monitoring, waterway maintenance, and riparian planting. Emphasizing kaitiakitanga, Haumako balances corporate goals with environmental stewardship, laying a durable foundation for future generations.
Tara Orchard
The Tara Orchard spans 18 hectares of land in a joint venture between Haumako and Ohuia Incorporation. Initiated in 2021, the orchard is now fully operational. Ongoing investment in orchard infrastructure will continue to support long-term sustainability, growth, streamline operations and increased efficiency.
A key part of the initiative is the cadetship program. This “earn as you learn” approach not only offers training and employment opportunities but also empowers Wairoa’s rangatahi. Haumako continues to champion talent development, ensuring a skilled and capable workforce for the future.
Whakapau Orchard
The Whakapau Orchard, spanning 109 hectares, is owned by Haumako. Currently, 30 hectares are developed into high-performing apple orchards, with 59 hectares dedicated to complementary cropping and grazing activities. Future plans include creating a unique, locally owned fruit brand. Haumako aims to advance whenua led development by establishing key infrastructure like water storage and a cool store to support post-harvest facilities. Unlocking up to 600 hectares of horticultural land will optimise the supply chain, retain economic value within the rohe, strengthen local employment pathways, and increase Māori leadership and participation in the horticultural value chain.
Ngakinga
Ngakinga, within the Whakapau Orchard, aims to heal and connect our people to the whenua, offering mauri-enriched kai and enhancing whānau wellbeing. It creates sustainable food sources, supporting self-sufficiency and food sovereignty. Incorporating Māori agricultural practices, Ngakinga provides fresh and healthy kai to the whānau. Rongoā planting offers natural healing resources.
Ngakinga also serves as a research site for organic management and future cropping opportunities. It provides opportunities for learning new varieties and gardening techniques.
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