Shirley’s Strawberries in Ōhau, south of Levin, is run by second-generation strawberry farmer Sue Fifita-Tovo, her husband Rob and their wider whānau (extended family group). Their farm has several large plots, producing tons of strawberries each year. Most are picked for the market, but fruit that is left are there for pick-your-own fruit lovers during the summer break. Fifita-Tovo took over the farm from her mum, Shirley Donovan, six seasons ago and introduced pick-your-own days as a way to give her workers a break during the Christmas season. Fifita-Tovo said being able to pick your own produce was appealing because people could spend time with loved ones and reconnect with nature.

Source: Stuff January 05, 2024 13:16 UTC