Meet The Growers: Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables, Five Generations In The Making

Potatoes With Pedigree

Potatoes have been central to the Oakley family for generations, and the launch of Golden Gourmet more than a decade ago marked a turning point. “Taste is everything,” says Bernie. “Golden Gourmet has that golden texture people look for, and we keep a tight size profile so cooking is consistent.”

That precision starts with optical grading. “We’ve invested heavily so every potato is checked after washing,” Bernie explains. “We focus the bulk of Golden Gourmet between 50 and 80 grams, and the system helps us hit that spec accurately.”

These potatoes are perfect accompaniments to HelloFresh’s more premium and occasion based recipes, their pleasant texture and size make them ideal for recipes that need that extra “wow” factor.

Alongside Golden Gourmet, Oakley’s supplies other potato lines, as well as broccoli, beetroot and pumpkin, rounding out a mix that keeps HelloFresh menus varied, seasonal and, just as importantly, local.

Farming With Foresight

Of course, the product isn’t the only focus for Oakley’s. Sustainability runs through every day-to-day decision. Environmental management systems help track soil health and fertiliser use, with regular audits to keep the farm on track against local guidelines. “We’re careful about what we apply and how we manage the paddocks,” says Bernie. “It’s about looking after the land for the long term.”

The business has also invested in solar, installing panels five years ago that now power much of the packhouse – from washing and packing to cool storage. Packaging is kept lean, with produce shipped in reusable bulk crates that fit neatly into HelloFresh’s cardboard system and reduce plastic waste.

For Oakley’s, these steps reflect a broader commitment to goodness: growing food in a way that supports people’s wellbeing while protecting the environment.

Built On Connection

Reliability is key to making the partnership work. Oakley’s produce typically reaches HelloFresh hubs in the North Island within about 48 hours of harvest. Advance orders give the team the visibility they need to plan planting, packing and freight in step with demand.

“We keep a close eye on everything from weather to ferry schedules,” Bernie says. “That way, what we promise is what we deliver.”

Regular conversations keep both teams aligned and ready to adapt. “It’s a genuine two-way relationship,” Bernie explains. “We understand each other’s requirements and work together to meet them. That connection has helped us scale and keep improving, even when conditions are tough.”

That foundation of trust has also given Oakley’s the confidence to grow. Over the past two decades, the partnership with HelloFresh has played a key role in helping the business double its scale, invest in new technology, and expand its reach. Bernie credits the partnership with HelloFresh as a big part of that momentum.

“The opportunity HelloFresh gives us has helped accelerate our growth,” says Bernie. “Having that stability means we can plan ahead and grow with confidence.”

So next time you’re roasting Golden Gourmets from your HelloFresh box, you’re tasting more than a great potato. You’re getting the benefits of five generations of know-how, smart investment where it counts, and a partnership designed to deliver fresh, reliable produce to Kiwi kitchens – week in, week out.