The grove from where Duck Creek Olive Oil is harvested is located close to the Mahurangi Harbour and 6km from the heart of Matakana. Privately owned, managed and personally harvested by Derek and Sally Holland, the pair chatted with our team about gravitating to the corporate gift market.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
"Our company background is based on a variety of businesses. We have been the owners of our own real estate company, owned a fine accommodation property with a vineyard and olive oil business on Waiheke Island and involved in consulting on the restoration of historic homes and landscaping. Whatever we do, marketing is the name of the game. The objective is to produce an outstanding product/service and take it to the marketplace with confidence and enthusiasm."
What are the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
"Duck Creek Road is a 12-year-old olive grove and planted specifically to blend six different types of olive varieties to then blend to make exceptional oil. We purchased the property nearly four years ago and have subsequently taken the grove to another level. We follow an organic philosophy regarding the care of our soil; we prune yearly, sometimes aggressively on some trees while others need only a slight pruning. We take two months to harvest, taking only the best olives as and when that variety of olive comes into peak condition."
Has there been any recent company news?
"To stand out in the oil business, we have gravitated to the corporate gift market, packaging our oil in a manner that is different to others. The balance of our oil we sell to selected delicatessens and restaurants who maintain a good food philosophy regarding the source of where their products come from.
The business is privately owned by Sally and Derek Holland, and we personally harvest, prune and package our goods. We do not hire staff, as the quality control of our product is vital. Our gift packs are enormously well received, again including high-quality goods from England, Modena A grade Balsamic Vinegar, local Reserve red wine and crystal glass from Italy."
What are the plans for the business moving forward, is there any expansion on the horizon?
"Moving forward our desire is to maintain the production of our high-quality oil and packaging and to continue our personal service. We are always open to different types of high-quality product to include in our gift range."
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability? If so, where would you like to see the product situated?
"We would like to be more involved in the restaurant trade as I know chefs totally “get” what we produce. We are certified EV00, have won multi awards and have been regarded as one of the top three oils in the world."
