The Chineka Story
The macadamia nut is a member of the Proteaceae family and originate in Australia. Only two species, macadamia integrifolia and macadamia tetraphylla are in commercial use. The macadamia is a large evergreen tree and can grow to 20m with spiky leaves and long thin racemes of tiny, sweet smelling flowers varying in colour from cream to pink. The nuts form in clusters and the kernel is encased in a spherical, brown, rock-hard shell, which in turn is in a green leathery husk. Husks are removed and the nuts dried slowly before removing the shell with sophisticated equipment.
Two macadamia trees, given to Virginia by her mother for her birthday, were to be the start of an incredible success story. Virginia’s mother saw the potential of the trees not only as an attractive ornamental tree but as the confectionery nut of the future. Sadly Virginia’s mother died shortly after her birthday gift of trees to Virginia. She would have been proud to see the fulfillment of her vision. From these two trees Charles and Virginia expanded their macadamia plantings over the years, and they flourish in the sweet air and brilliant sunshine of the Franklin District. The business evolved from small beginnings, selling to local people, then bulk nuts to a local wholesaler. When her own crop was insufficient she branched out to buying nuts from other growers. Further developing a value added approach to the nuts, Virginia created the range of special occasion and corporate gifts.
In 1996 Virginia was Business and Professional Women New Zealand "Business Woman of the Year", in recognition of her successful and innovative approach. The business continues to flourish and Virginia runs educational field days for present and future nut growers, conducts tours around the property and speaks to meetings.
At Chineka we are proud of our Macadamia products. Our gifts are of the highest quality. These gifts are ideal for valued customers, as a corporate gift for conferences or for overseas colleagues. When you support Chineka Macadamias you support local New Zealand business innovation and help to provide employment for New Zealanders.
