Today we feature the DeMeulemeester family’s Lothlorien Winery relationship to the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market (MVFM).

The DeMeulemeester family's journey is a beautiful testament to dedication, sustainability, and craftsmanship. In the 1970s, they purchased a large farm north of Auckland, driven by a dream to create something meaningful.

Their vision included planting a diverse range of fruit trees, not only to provide organic fruit for their own family but also to share with the wider community. Over the past five decades, their commitment to organic farming has flourished into a thriving, award-winning business. 

Nestled in the subtropical valley of Ahuroa, just 45 minutes north of Auckland, the Lothlorien Winery orchards are nurtured with certified organic practices. Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do, with every step of production — from growing and harvesting fruits to juicing, winemaking, and packaging — taking place on-site. This hands-on approach ensures the highest quality while staying true to their values. 

The DeMeulemeesters' respect for the land and environment goes beyond farming practices; it’s a way of life that has endured for over 50 years. Since 1993, they have been producing an exquisite range of certified organic feijoa wines, liqueurs, and juices. These award-winning beverages are grown, hand-picked, and crafted with care, reflecting their deep commitment to quality and tradition. 

Their story is not just about creating exceptional feijoa beverages but also about passing down a legacy of sustainability and craftsmanship across generations. When asked what drew them to the Matakana Village Farmers' Market (MVFM) 20 years ago, the DeMeulemeesters shared that it was the market's ethos of being eco-friendly, local, and community-oriented.

Being part of the MVFM has been a fantastic experience for Lothlorien Winery. It has provided the opportunity to connect directly with the wider community and collaborate with like-minded growers and producers of delicious and healthy products. 

For the DeMeulemeester family, the market is not just a place to showcase their creations but a vital connection point with others who share their passion for sustainability, quality, and local produce. 

Visit their website to learn more or experience their award-winning beverages: http://www.lothlorienwinery.co.nz