pick your own is closed
frozen blueberry sales & pick-your-own
At the Otautau orchard, you can pick your own blueberries fresh from the fields for a limited time in January and February or enjoy ready-picked berries available at the orchard shop in quantities of 1kg (while stocks last). For those looking to stock up, frozen blueberries are available in-store only all year round, with options including 10kg A Grade Frozen Blueberries and 1kg bags of Frozen Blueberries. The Orchard Shop also sells bottled water and their famous real fruit ice creams during the pick-your-own season.
How PYO Works
- Park & Check-In – Follow signs to the Orchard Shop/PYO entry. Our friendly team will greet you, issue buckets, and explain where to pick.
- Pick in Designated Blocks – Stay within the allocated block. Please supervise children and watch for open drains or uneven ground.
- Sample for Taste Only – Try a few to check ripeness, but remember the orchard isn’t an all-you-can-eat buffet.
- Weigh & Pay – Bring your berries to the Orchard Shop. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Tip #1
If you hear the foghorn, please move to the emergency assembly point in the parking lot. Accessible toilets with baby changing facilities are located at the Orchard Shop, with limited Port-a-Loos in the field.
Pick Your own prices
Weekdays:
$14 per kg
Weekends & Public Holidays:
$16 per kg
Big Pickers:
$2 off per kg when you pick more than 10 kg
Shop prices
10kg Box Frozen Blueberries:
$100
1kg Bag Frozen Blueberries:
$14 per kg
Frozen Blueberry Lovers:
$2 off per kg when you buy more than 5kg
What to Bring
- Sun hat & sunscreen
- Closed-toe, appropriate footwear (the orchard has uneven ground)
- A water bottle (refillable is best)
- A chilly bin/cooler (especially if taking frozen berries home)
- Hand sanitiser
tip #2
Please take all rubbish with you to help us keep the grounds beautiful. Refreshments, snacks, and plenty of drinks are also available at the Orchard Store.
Orchard Safety & Etiquette
- Children must be supervised at all times.
- No pets allowed.
- No smoking anywhere on site.
- Only pick in designated rows.
- Watch for drains, uneven ground, and moving vehicles.
- Please respect staff and other visitors.
- If you see any hazards or unsafe conditions, report immediately to one of the staff.
- Always wash your berries before eating.
Berry Washing Protocol
Blueberries naturally have a fine, whitish coating called the bloom — this protects the fruit and helps keep it fresh. Leave berries unwashed until you are ready to serve them.
When ready to eat:
1. Place berries in a clean colander.
2. Rinse gently under cool running water.
3. Drain well, pat dry, and serve.
Washing only before serving helps berries stay fresher for longer and taste their best.
How to Store Your Berries
Fresh berries: Store in the fridge in a covered container. They will keep for 5–7 days if left unwashed until serving.
Freezing berries:
1. Spread unwashed berries in a single layer on a tray and freeze until firm.
2. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
3. Rinse just before using in smoothies, baking, or desserts.
Frozen berries can last up to a year — perfect for smoothies, pancakes, or baking.
Pro tip: Keep a bag of frozen blueberries handy for quick, healthy snacks or breakfast boosts!
Groups & Bookings
Planning a school trip, corporate outing, or large group visit? Please book ahead so we can reserve rows and make your day run smoothly.
why choose blueberry country
Discover Our New Zealand Blueberry Orchards
100% NZ-Grown
Local fruit, fully traceable from orchard to freezer.
Sustainably Farmed:
Our peat soils naturally store carbon, reduce irrigation, and support regenerative growing.
Trusted Quality:
Advanced technology ensures every berry is safe, clean, and delicious.
Pick-Your-Own Heritage:
Decades of family traditions and nationwide community support.
common questions
Got questions about our PYO? We’ve got answers.
Yes. There are limited Port-a-Loos in the field and accessible toilets with baby changing facilities at the Orchard Shop.
No, pets are not permitted.
Sometimes — please keep your proof of payment handy.
PYO is weather-dependent. Always check our Facebook or website for updates before you travel.
Yes — all berries should be rinsed at home before eating.
Still have questions?
If you have more queries or need specific advice, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help with all your blueberry-related questions!
