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 28 hectares of land in a joint venture between Tātau 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 spans 109 hectares and is owned by Tātau. It is being developed for 30 hectares of apple trees and 59 hectares of other crops, with plans to develop its own fruit brand. It will support horticulture expansion by providing water infrastructure and a packhouse, increasing horticulture by 600 hectares, boosting fruit production by 54,000 units, and processing over 90 tonnes of fruit locally.
The orchard creates employment and training opportunities for whānau and rangatahi. It optimises the supply chain and supports economic growth. Additionally, it contributes to cultural and environmental monitoring and promotes agricultural diversification.
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.
