The Huntly Fruit and Vegetable Co-op continues to make a positive difference in the community by providing access to affordable, fresh produce for local households. This simple but impactful initiative helps whānau put nutritious food on the table each week—without breaking the budget.
Run in partnership with Raahui Pookeka Community Centres Trust and Food Together, the co-op offers a weekly produce pack for just $15. While the exact contents vary depending on what’s in season, each pack typically includes a generous mix of fruit and vegetables—usually around three varieties of each. A recent example included broccoli, potatoes, carrots, onions, mandarins, gold kiwifruit, and apples.
The co-op is open to everyone, and there’s no long-term commitment required. Some members order every week, others fortnightly, and some as needed. As long as orders and payments are received by 4pm on Mondays, the team can place the order on Tuesday for delivery on Wednesday.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated group of volunteers gathers each Wednesday morning at Friendship House to unload the delivery truck and carefully pack individual orders. Their efforts ensure everything is ready for collection later that day from either Friendship House or Te Whare Awhi.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own bags when collecting their produce, helping to keep the initiative environmentally friendly.
The co-op is more than just a food service—it’s a community effort powered by local people supporting one another. Organisers extend heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who generously give their time each week to keep things running smoothly.
For more information or to place an order, contact:
friendship@huntly.co.nz
07 828 7559
Nau mai, haere mai—everyone is welcome to take part and enjoy fresh, nutritious kai.
