Kevin Jackson’s distinctive property Jackson Orchards in Cromwell boasts a state-of-the-art packhouse and cool store, fruit stall, orchard tours and cottage accommodation.

The fourth generation Central Otago orchardist established the 35-hectare orchard in 1989 and today it is one of New Zealand’s largest suppliers of stone fruit including cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, greengages, apples and pears. 

“We have an excellent variety of pip fruit available to purchase during spring including oranges, apples and pears,” says  the orchard’s retail manager Jamie Cowie. “Our stone fruit is available from December through till March with delicious cherries, plums peaches and nectarines offering a real taste of Cromwell grown fruit.”

Jackson Orchards has a reputation for its quality fruit, vegetables and other local produce sold at its prominent roadside stall.

“We have recently introduced New Zealand’s newest farm gate to plate butchery goods from Chopped Butchery in Waimate bringing high-quality grass-fed meat to your doorstep,” says Jamie. “Our selection includes steak, pork loins, lamb roasts and chops, bacon, mince, pork belly and other options.”

“We also sell free-range eggs, honey and preserves made from our fruit grown on site and fresh baked loaves from the European Bakery. Kitchen Window Catering is located within the fruit stall selling its award-winning preserves, freshly prepared salads, buddha bowls, gourmet toasties and takeaway coffees.”

Under the Canopy

Spring is a special time to experience Jackson Orchards in full bloom.

“The season is a hive of activity with pruning in progress and the bees in full action pollinating flowers,” says retail manager Jamie Cowie. “The orchard tours take in cherry blossom trees in full bloom and the fragrance and flowers are incredible to experience en masse.”

The tours demonstrate how the orchard is run including operation of the machinery, the workings of the contemporary packhouse and the property’s intricate irrigation systems.

“The family friendly tours offer a fascinating insight into the intricacies of a working orchard providing  people with beautiful views of the area while they learn about history of the property,” says Jamie. “Orchard tours run daily from 9.00am until 4.00pm every hour with no minimum number  required.”

Tour bookings online www.jacksonorchard.co.nz

Jackson Orchards are famous for their ice cream kiosk with its mouthwatering selection of real fruit ice creams and  smoothies made on the spot with gluten free and dairy free options.