Sunday 25th May, 2025 - 10.30 am - 3 pm

Join us for a relaxed and inspiring day exploring two very different - but equally interesting - properties in the Ōtaki region. Whether you are new to tree crops or have years of experience, this is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and share ideas.

About the Properties

Address for both properties will be provided upon registration.

Gordon & Karina Cameron – Ōtaki
Set on a property with a rich 29 Atkins Road, Ōtaki legacy, Gordon and Karina’s home orchard includes mature apples, plums, pears, citrus and feijoas, with newer additions like blueberries and grapevines. Formerly a commercial flower-growing site, the land still holds traces of its daffodil, dahlia, and orchid-filled past. Over the past five years, the Camerons have been steadily transforming the space - restoring and replanting while embracing its history and potential.

Kim Young & Duncan Sargent – Ōtaki
Kim and Duncan’s 0.7ha block is a dynamic young project blending ecological restoration with productive planting. Since 2019, they’ve planted over 1,200 native and fruit trees, working to establish a thriving riparian zone and diverse orchard. From feijoas to figs and citrus to quince, their site is a great example of learning by doing, sharing both the wins and the lessons from the early years of property development.

Programme for the Day

10.30am - Arrive at Gordon & Karina Cameron’s
Registration, tea/coffee and welcome
Explore the orchard, vege gardens, and meet their two corgi’s that pretend to be farm dogs.
12.15pm – Lunch
Bring your lunch and a chair if you can. Trestle tables and some seating available in the barn. Tea/coffee and hot water (urn) provided.
1.30pm - Arrive at Kim Young & Duncan Sargent’s
Walk through a six-year-old planting project blending native and productive species, with plenty of lessons shared along the way.

What to Bring

Packed lunch
A chair (if possible)
Water bottle
Gumboots or suitable footwear - expect uneven or muddy ground
Plant money if you’d like to purchase or swap!

Important Notes

Well-behaved dogs welcome at Kim’s, but no dogs at Gordon & Karina’s, please
Toilets are available at both sites
Drinking water provided
Plant sales/welcome tables at each location
The event will go ahead wet or fine - there are covered areas at both stops
Hazards include uneven ground, an unfenced stream, and farm equipment - please take care