Shirley’s Strawberries in Ōhau, south of Levin, is run by second-generation strawberry farmer Sue Fifita-Tovo, her husband Rob, and their wider whānau (extended family group). Their farm has several large plots, producing tons of strawberries each year. Most are picked for the market, but the fruit that is left is there for pick-your-own fruit lovers during the summer break.
Fifita-Tovo took over the farm from her mum, Shirley Donovan, six seasons ago and introduced pick-your-own days as a way to give her workers a break during the Christmas season. And many people are return customers, with many families returning each year.
Fifita-Tovo said being able to pick your own produce was appealing because people could spend time with loved ones and reconnect with nature.
Source: stuff.co.nz