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Forest Lodge Orchard: Harvesting a zero-emissions revolution

Mike and Rebecca, the owners of Forest Lodge Orchard, embarked on their sustainability journey with a bold vision – to build a farm powered by renewable energy and eliminate emissions.

6 minute read

Sustainability in action

In the heart of New Zealand’s thriving horticulture sector, a quiet revolution is underway. Forest Lodge Orchard is leading the charge with a zero-emission, fully electrified cherry farm – setting a new standard for sustainability.

After selling their Sydney business in 2019 and returning to New Zealand, Mike and Rebecca applied his background in technology and energy to reimagine the farm’s operations. They quickly recognised that the future of farming in New Zealand wasn’t just about producing food.

From the outset, Mike identified energy consumption as a key area for innovation. They began by developing a solar and battery system to generate renewable energy on-site. With energy in hand, they started to replace traditional diesel-powered equipment with electric machinery. The results were immediate and impressive – electric equipment proved more cost-effective, meaning long-term savings.

A powerful partnership

The journey to fully electrify the farm, did however, require the right financial support. That’s where BNZ stepped in. By partnering with BNZ in 2021, Forest Lodge gained access to the capital needed to realise its ambitious vision.

Mike’s unconventional approach and bold vision meant that BNZ also had to think outside the box, engaging various specialists in the team and finding the right financial solutions. Recognising the need for innovative support, BNZ’s team worked alongside Mike and Rebecca to structure a financing package that would enable this leap towards electrification.

Through tailored financial products like the Green Business Loan – designed for businesses investing in sustainability – and strategic advice, BNZ has played a crucial role in turning Forest Lodge’s zero-emission dream into reality.

Today, the farm boasts a fleet of 21 electric machines and is the world’s first fully electric farm – a beacon for the agricultural sector.

“We’re swapping out fuels for finance,” Mike explains. “Instead of spending money on diesel, we’re investing in electric equipment and renewable energy. BNZ has been key in helping us access the capital needed to achieve this.”

BNZ’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in agriculture is rooted in the belief that sustainable practices aren’t just good for the environment – they make good business sense too. By supporting Forest Lodge, it has enabled them to build resilience, reduce costs, and create new revenue streams on farm.

Electrification has not only improved operational efficiency but also allowed the farm to generate and sell energy back to the grid, further enhancing resilience and contributing to New Zealand’s broader decarbonisation goals.

Growing innovation

In addition to electrification, Forest Lodge has adopted innovative farming techniques. It uses a non-traditional growing system called UFO (Upright Fruiting Offshoots), where cherry trees are grown in a two-dimensional system rather than the usual three-dimensional canopy. This system maximises light exposure by about 15% more, than a traditional three-dimensional tree, crucial for fruit production.

The UFO system also reduces labour costs. With more uniform growth, the trees are easier to manage and harvest, meaning less manpower is needed. While initial setup costs were higher, long-term savings have made the farm more profitable and sustainable.

The future of farming

Mike and Rebecca are passionate about demonstrating what’s possible for other farmers, both in New Zealand and globally. Their farm serves as a model for how electrification, innovative farming methods, and strong partnerships can work together to create a sustainable, zero-emission farm that benefits both the environment and the bottom line.

“We’re trying to bring something to the community and to the country,” Mike says. “The value of what we’re doing grows exponentially when others take it up. We hope other farmers will see the potential to decarbonise and embrace new ways of doing things.”

Profit with purpose

At Forest Lodge Orchard, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the foundation of a resilient, forward-thinking business. By working with BNZ, Mike and Rebecca have proven that transitioning to a zero-emission, electrified farm isn’t just a noble goal – it’s a smart business decision that delivers long-term benefits. Their story is a powerful reminder that innovation, combined with the right partnerships, can transform industries and lead the way to a better, more sustainable future for all.

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