Nourishing Upper Hutt: Join the Fruit & Vege Co-op Whānau
By Adrienne Newman
Every Wednesday in Upper Hutt’s Brown Owl, something quietly joyful unfolds. At Greenstone Doors—a warm, welcoming hub for whānau—crates of fresh, seasonal produce are packed with care and purpose. This is the Upper Hutt Fruit & Vege Co-op, part of the wider Hauora Kai Collective, and it’s here to make healthy kai accessible, affordable, and community-powered.
Whether you’re a seasoned veggie lover or just starting to explore fresh, local produce, the Co-op is ready to welcome you in.
What Is the Fruit & Vege Co-op?
The Hauora Kai Fruit & Vege Co-op is a community-powered initiative offering fresh, locally sourced produce at just $15 per pack. Each week, you’ll receive a generous mix of 2–4 fruits and 3–4 vegetables—enough to feed your whānau, inspire your meals, and stretch your budget.
There’s no catch. No eligibility criteria. No contract. Just good food, good people, and a kaupapa that’s good for growers, good for the community, and good for you.
👉 Sign up now at www.hauorakai.nz
🧡 Why Greenstone Doors?
The Upper Hutt Co-op is hosted by Greenstone Doors, a charitable trust that supports women and families through pregnancy and beyond. Their work is grounded in compassion, dignity, and practical support—from free baby clothing and playgroups to counselling and connection.
It’s no coincidence that the Co-op lives here. Both organisations believe in wraparound care, in showing up for people during life’s big and small transitions. Whether you’re navigating parenthood, budgeting for groceries, or simply craving community, this is a place where you’re seen and supported.
Upper Hutt Pickup Locations
You don’t have to live in Brown Owl to join the Co-op. Packs are available for pickup every Wednesday from four convenient hubs, either 12pm-2pm, or by arrangement after-hours:
Brown Owl – Greenstone Doors
Upper Hutt CBD
Silverstream
Pinehaven
Just choose your preferred location when you register, pay on Wednesdays, and collect your pack the following Wednesday. It’s that simple.
Why Your Order Matters
Every pack ordered helps sustain the Co-op, support local growers, and keep this kaupapa thriving in Upper Hutt. More members mean more visibility, more impact, and more delicious kai reaching homes across our community.
Whether you’re brand new to the Co-op or one of our long-time supporters, your order makes a difference. It’s a simple act with powerful ripple effects—nourishing your whānau, strengthening local food systems, and weaving tighter community connections.
If you’ve ever thought, “I should eat more veg,” or “I wish groceries were more affordable,” this is your moment. Join the movement. Tell your neighbours. Share the Upper Hutt Co-op Facebook page. And let’s grow something beautiful together.
Ready to make a difference with your dinner plans? Register now at www.hauorakai.nz and choose one of Upper Hutt’s hubs as your pickup location. Your $15 pack is more than just produce—it’s a vote for community, health, and hope.
