Today to celebrate Matakana Village Farmers' Market (MVFM) 20 year anniversary we feature Orata Marine Oysters who have been providing Matakana market punters yummy Pacific Oysters since the market’s inception.

Trevor and Lynette have been proud stewards of the oyster industry for over 27 years. Their journey began as part of a collaborative effort with other Mahurangi Harbour oyster farmers, where they rotated market attendance to showcase their products. However, as time went on, many farmers chose to step away from the markets, deeming them unviable or dismissing their potential impact. 

Trevor and Lynette saw things differently. They recognised the MVFM as a unique opportunity to promote not only their business but also the rich heritage of Mahurangi Harbour’s oyster farming. Over the years, Orata Oysters has become a staple at the market, known for offering fresh, premium-quality oysters straight from their farm to the community. 

Despite their success, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Environmental factors, such as the impact of wastewater run-off, have made market attendance increasingly difficult. Financial pressures have also weighed heavily, as oyster farming is at the mercy of nature. From wild-caught spat to fully grown oysters ready for market, the process takes 16–24 months, with supply varying based on seasonal conditions and the success of the spat catch. 

What keeps Trevor and Lynette going is the incredible sense of community they’ve found at the MVFM. The friendships they’ve forged and the loyal customers who return each week for their fresh oysters are what make it all worthwhile. Orata Oysters is more than a business—it’s a testament to hard work, resilience, and a love for sharing the finest oysters Mahurangi Harbour has to offer. 

For more information head to their Instagram page

https://www.instagram.com/oratamarineoysters/