Nelson’s Kakariki Olives Wins Gold Medal in NY

Nelson’s Kakariki Olives, produced by Ray and Brenda Gregory, was one of several New Zealand brands that received gold at the New York International Olive Oil Competition on 8 May, Tim Newman reports for Stuff.

The Gregorys, who have a grove of more than 3000 olive trees in the Redwood Valley, said they were taken completely by surprise by the news, Newman writes.

“We had somewhat forgotten about the awards because of Covid, and then we got a text at 20 past 5 on Tuesday morning to say we’d won a gold medal,” Brenda said.

“We were thrilled and so proud for New Zealand olives and the industry … it shows that in New Zealand we are growing and making world standard olive oil as good as anywhere in the world.”

Kakariki won the award for their Mediterranean Blend Oil, which includes Kalamata, Picholine and Picual olives, and has flavours of cut tomato leaf, rocket and artichoke.

In total, there were 900 entries from 26 countries at the awards in New York this year.

Along with Kakariki, the other New Zealand winners were Kapiti Olives, Loopline Olives, Woodside Bay, Olea Estate, and Old French Road.

Original article by Tim Newman, Stuff, May 17, 2020.

Photo by Virginia Woolf.