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Forest Lodge Orchard Blog

2026 Harvest Recap at Electric Cherries 🍒

Harvest season always feels a bit magic around here, long days, sticky fingers, and that buzz that only comes when the fruit is finally ready. This year has been no different, and with four varieties picked and one still to come, we thought it was the perfect time to pause, look back, and say a massive thank you.

Every box that’s left our orchard has been picked from our 100 percent electric operation, grown right here in Central Otago, and supported by an epic community who genuinely care about how their food is grown. We honestly would not be doing this without you, and we hope you are loving every last cherry as much as we do.

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Rainier harvest 🌞

Our first pick of the season kicked off on the 6th of January, and what a way to start. Blue skies, warm sunshine, and Rainiers that had soaked up a long run of great weather meant flavour and fruit development were right on point. These beauties were crisp, juicy, and an absolute crowd favourite straight off the tree.

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Lapins harvest 🍒

Next up were the Lapins, the fruit size was bang on, the colour deepened beautifully, and the orchard was humming. Early mornings, good banter, and a full crew always make this harvest a good one.

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Kootenay harvest 💪

Mid January saw Kootenay coming off the trees and these picks are always big day being a popular varietal. We also love this part of the season because it is when the wider crew really comes together. Having the Central Pac picking crews back in the rows brings great energy, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of experience that keeps things moving smoothly.

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Sweetheart harvest❤️

Another cracker bluebird day in the orchard as we picked our Sweethearts around mid January. With a bit of extra time on the trees, the fruit really showed off, deeper in colour, bigger in size, and full of that rich flavour we love to see.

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Sentennials still to come 🌿

Our final harvest will be Sentennials, and they are hanging out a little longer this year. Cooler growing conditions have slowed things down slightly, which is no bad thing at all. More time on the tree means more flavour development, and we are very happy to let nature set the pace. Watch this space, these ones are worth the wait.

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SHOP HERE: https://shop.electriccherries.nz/

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A huge thank you ❤️

To everyone who has bought a box, shared our story, or cheered us on from near and far, thank you. Supporting Electric Cherries means backing a different way of farming, one that is electric, local, and built for the long haul. We are incredibly grateful to be able to do what we do, and even more grateful to share it with you🍒

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