Did you know that Greenhithe was once famous for its orchards and a fruit cannery and still has several heritage orchards?

In Ray King’s book ‘Tauhinu, A History of Greenhithe’ he writes on page 124.

‘The Jonkers family was well known in Greenhithe. They ran an orchard in Rame Road and later established a fruit canning business that provided job opportunities for many local residents. Mr. Jonkers was the secretary of the Greenhithe community hall committee and was in charge of a commando unit made up of men from Paremoremo, Greenhithe, Glenfield and Albany during WWII. In 1983 Mrs. Jonkers was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal.’

There is growing local interest in more care being shown towards these ancient trees that have provided food for families for years. Here are some locations – Orchard Reserve (pictured) at Oratau Reserve has plum and pear trees. There are currently major restoration works being done on the stream bed.

Wainoni Park has plum, apple, feijoa and citrus trees. Plus apple trees down by the Riding for the Disabled end.

The public walkway from Orchard Reserve to the central village has 3 heritage apple trees.

If you are interested to learn about pruning and caring for these trees and harvesting them with a group of volunteers, or teach these skills, please contact Nicola on nicola@greenhithecommunitytrust.org.nz