Hello, wonderful parents of Auckland! Are you looking for a fabulous family activity that gets you out into the fresh air, teaches your kids about where their food comes from, and also happens to be heaps of fun? Then, fruit picking could be the perfect choice for your next family outing! ??

In this guide, we’ll explore why fruit picking is terrific for kids, provide tips to make the most of your outing, and, of course, share our top picks for the best fruit farms around Auckland where your little ones can experience the joy of plucking nature’s candy right from the source!

Why Fruit Picking is Fantastic for Kids

Fruit picking isn’t just a delightful way to spend a day, but it’s also incredibly educational. Children learn about horticulture, the seasons, and healthy eating. Plus, it promotes physical activity and can even help in developing fine motor skills as they reach, pick, and place fruit into their baskets. And let’s not forget, the fruit tastes infinitely better when you’ve harvested it with your own little hands!

Preparing for Your Fruit Picking Adventure

• Dress Appropriately: The weather can be fickle, so check the forecast and dress your kids in layers. Don’t forget hats and sunscreen!
• Choose the Right Footwear: Farms can be muddy, so closed shoes are a must – gumboots are an excellent choice if it’s been raining recently.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated throughout the day.
• Pack Snacks: Fruit picking is hungry work, so pack some healthy snacks to keep energy levels up.
• Research: Each farm has different crops and picking seasons, so it’s best to check what’s available to pick before you go.

Top Fruit Farms Near Auckland for Kids

Ready to find the perfect spot for your fruity day out? Here are some fabulous orchards near Auckland that are just perfect for your little fruit enthusiasts:

• Smith’s Farm: With a vast array of strawberries, apples, and peaches, Smith’s Farm is a child’s dream. They have a fantastic play area for when the kids need a break from picking.
• Oakwood Orchard: This orchard is renowned for its juicy berries and cherries. They also offer tractor rides and have picnic areas if you want to make a day of it.
• Willowbank U-Pick: Specialising in stone fruit, Willowbank lets your kids wander among the trees to pick plums, nectarines, and apricots when in season.

When to Go Fruit Picking

TIming is everything when it comes to fruit picking! You’ll want to make sure you head out during the appropriate season for the fruit you’re after. Here’s a quick rundown of the best times to visit:

• Strawberries: Late October to January
• Cherries: December to early January
• Apples: February to late April
• Peaches: January to March
• Plums: January to February

Calling all Auckland families! Are you on the hunt for an engaging outdoor activity that is both fun and edifying for the kiddos? Well, fruit picking just might be your perfect family-friendly excursion. Imagine spending a day in the sun-dappled fields, gathering nature’s sweet offerings, and watching joy bloom on your children’s faces—it’s pure bliss! ??

We’ve prepared this ultimate guide to take you through the ins and outs of fruit picking in Auckland, ensuring your family’s experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. So, grab your baskets and let’s dive in!

Why Fruit Picking Can Be the Highlight of Your Child’s Year

Believe it or not, fruit picking is a veritable playground of learning opportunities for your little ones. It’s a prime time for them to learn about the natural world, the growing seasons, and the importance of sustainable practices. Plus, all that reaching, grasping, and carrying of fruit is not only exciting but also a great workout for their developing bodies!

5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing for Fruit Picking

1. Attire Matters: Dressing your kids appropriately for the orchard means comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. A wide-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen will protect them from the sun, while layers are key for those unpredictable weather days.
2. Footwear is Key: Farm terrain varies and you’ll likely encounter patches of uneven ground, so sturdy shoes are a necessity. Waterproof options like wellies are a great idea, especially if rain has been in the forecast.
3. Hydration Station: A day under the sun requires constant hydration. Arm yourselves with refillable water bottles to keep your family’s thirst quenched throughout your fruit-picking quest.
4. Satisfying Snacks: Trust us, foraging for fruit can work up an appetite. Pack a variety of healthy snacks to nibble on to keep everyone’s energy buzzing all day long.
5. Know Before You Go: To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to do a bit of research. Check which farms are open to the public and what fruits are in season to plan your optimal picking adventure.

Auckland’s Best U-Pick Farms for Your Little Harvesters

Now onto the exciting part—choosing where to go fruit picking. To simplify your search, we’ve gathered information on some of Auckland’s most family-friendly and vibrant u-pick farms:

• Paradise Orchard: Boasts a colourful spectrum of fruits from berries to stone fruits, and it has dedicated children’s areas for when their little legs need a break.
• Berrylicious Farm: Specializes in an array of berry varieties. Their berry tunnels are a fun way for kids to explore, and they offer shaded areas for a relaxing picnic.
• Golden Grove Kiwi Farm: Ideal for a unique fruit picking experience with their kiwi vines. They also offer educational tours about the importance of kiwi in New Zealand culture.

Peak Seasons for Picking: Best Times for Bountiful Baskets

Knowing the harvest calendar ensures you get the freshest, ripest produce. Here is a handy list of the typical fruit seasonality in Auckland:

• Blueberries: December to February
• Raspberries: December to March
• Pears: March to May
• Kiwifruit: June to August
• Mandarins: July to September