Woodland’s Organic Honey

In the picturesque Northern Coromandel, Woodland’s Organic Honey stands as a beacon of sustainable business practices. This 100% family-owned and operated enterprise embodies a "from hive to home" ethos, with every jar of their certified organic manuka honey produced, harvested, extracted, packed, and labelled by hand. Their dedication to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their operation, from water usage to community engagement.

Owned and operated by Colville locals Shayne and Elizabether Mackenzie and their family, Woodland’s Organic Honey is commited to organic practices and community support.

Woodland’s Organic Honey is deeply connected to the Colville community. They employ local staff, providing full-time job opportunities in an area with few such prospects. Staff are paid the living wage or higher with the company supporting their employees in various ways, including providing vehicles and assisting with housing materials. The business also supports local charities donating honey for raffles and events.

They pay landowners for hive placements with honey or cash, and assist with maintaining tracks and structures on their properties. By employing local staff and supporting other local businesses, Woodland Organic Honey helps retain more employment in Colville, fostering a strong, sustainable community. Their commitment to organic farming, certified by BioGro New Zealand since 1997, means no synthetic additives or chemicals are used in their hives. Instead, they control the area around the hives through mowing, avoiding pesticides and herbicides. This ensures that the hives are left with enough honey stores for winter.

The company prioritises waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. End-of-batch honey is given to staff and landowners, ensuring zero food waste. Their packaging is made from recyclable plastic produced by a local manufacturer, further reducing their environmental footprint. Woodland’s honey is processed and packed at hive temperature, retaining its raw and unpasteurised state, along with natural enzymes and pollens. They offset emissions by fencing off waterways and wetlands on their farm and planting riparian margins, creating a corridor from Moehau Maunga to Waikawau Estuary.

Woodland’s Organic Honey holistic approach to sustainability sets a high standard and surely contributes to the intense flavour of its Outstanding Food Producer Award winning honey.

Learn the whole Woodland’s Organic Honey story on their website.