Work is underway on a new visitor attraction at the entrance to Warkworth on SH1.

Morrison's Heritage orchard is building a rustic, architectural cafe and playground with monthly farmers markets planned alongside a fruit and produce shop highlighting the many heritage varieties grown by the family over the last 150 years.

The family plan to add a hands-on educational experience to the venture for schools and families with pick your own fruit, animal petting and camping.

The facility will be linked to a walkway and cycleway into Warkworth village.

Bevan Morrison is project managing the building work, likely to be ready for opening in 2024.

Resource consent is currently being prepared.

Other local growers will be encouraged to use the farmers market to showcase their produce.