The experience of transitioning from livestock to olive oil production: a case study of farmers from Ōtaki

The couple, who had been involved in breeding sheep and beef livestock for over forty years, purchased a farm in 2021 that was established in 2003 two kilometers from the coast. The grove consists of 2,200 trees planted in dry, rocky soil. To mark the rows of different olive cultivars — Frantoio, Leccino, Picual, and Koroneiki — the owners applied a system of color-coded labels similar to the one they used in livestock farming.

The transition from working in hilly terrain to a flat grove required changes in production management approaches. Despite the change in specialization, the couple continues to use the experience and methods gained in the pasture management sector. In particular, to maintain tree health, agronomic practices of soil analysis and leaf sampling are applied. In addition, the farmers introduced drone spraying technology, becoming some of the first representatives of the olive industry in the region to use such solutions.

The couple controls the oil production and bottling process themselves, using problem-solving skills developed during their years of farming. To optimize operations, Grant Cross continues to monitor weather conditions using meteorological applications and a rain gauge, as the success of the harvest still depends on climatic factors. At the same time, the change in activity has allowed the couple to establish closer contact with consumers, including personal delivery of finished products to stores.

Currently, the enterprise is profitable, which, according to the owners, contributes to the stable development of the business. Grant Cross's plans before retirement include winning a national award for the best Extra Virgin olive oil.