CENTRAL OTAGO
Cromwell Cherries
New Zealand's most famous cherry growing region. Known for growing exceptional cherries exported all over the world.
FAR FROM THE FIRST
The History of Cherries
Cherries have been grown in Cromwell since the late 1800s. European settlers noticed that the climate was perfect for growing cherries, and by the 1950s Cromwell became well-known for its high-quality fruit.
Cromwell's cherry industry pulls in large numbers of tourists every summer. We have chosen to open our doors out of season to let people take farm tours and see the electrification process instead.
THE PERFECT PLACE TO GROW CHERRIES
Why We Chose Cromwell
Cromwell is Central Otago’s cherry capital, offering stunning landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, and easy access to two of New Zealand’s most iconic towns. The ideal place to settle down with our kids and start an electric revolution!
THE BEST SEASON FOR HARVEST
When Do We Harvest?
Cherries are usually harvested in Cromwell from late December to January. We handpick all our fruit to ensure only the ripest cherries are chosen. After harvesting, the cherries are quickly cooled and carefully packed to avoid bruising.
GROWING SMARTER
UFO Growing
Cromwell’s climate is perfect for growing premium cherries. Varieties like Rainier, Sweetheart, Lapins, and Kootenay thrive in the region’s rich soils, hot days, and cool nights, creating cherries with exceptional sweetness, flavour, and colour.
Meet Our Varieties
From the golden Rainier to the late season Sentennial, each variety has its own unique character and harvest window.
FROM PLANTING TO HARVEST
The Cherry Journey
PRUNING
Our trees love a hair cut
Pruning is essential for the health and productivity of cherry trees. During the dormant season, typically in late winter, our UFO trees are carefully trimmed to remove dead or diseased branches and keep them growing upright.
POLLINATION
From blossom to fruit
Effective pollination is vital for fruit set, and we've partnered with Taylor Pass Honey NZ for this next stage. 20 of their bee hives are strategically placed around the orchard when the cherry blossoms reach about 10% bloom.
EARLY GROWTH
The first green cherries appear
As spring approaches, cherry buds begin to swell and develop. These buds are the starter to blossoms, which will later transform into fruit. Monitoring bud development is crucial for timing the next steps in orchard management.
HARVESTING
Picking the tasty cherries
Harvesting is done meticulously by hand, ensuring that each cherry is picked at its peak ripeness. The hand-picking process helps prevent damage to the fruit and allows for the selection of only the best quality cherries.
PACKAGING
Getting the cherries ready to be sent
Once harvested, cherries are quickly transported to the packhouse where they are sorted and packed to maintain freshness. The cherries are then sorted into size, colour, and quality — ensuring that only the best cherries make it to the market.
FIND US
Electric Cherries, Mount Pisa
Want to see for yourself?
Visit our orchard in person for an up close look at the future of farming, where innovative electric machinery meets premium cherry growing just 10 minutes from Cromwell.