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Electric Cherries in the Spotlight
From the heart of Central Otago, Electric Cherries are making waves across the globe. Discover why these cherries are capturing headlines and taste buds alike.
Electric Cherries as seen on
Everything Electric Show
The Everything Electric Show dives into the world of electrification, showcasing cutting-edge tech and groundbreaking sustainability projects. Hosted by Robert Llewellyn and his team, the show explores how businesses, homes, and transport are going fully electric. In this episode, they visit Forest Lodge Orchard in Otago, New Zealand—the world’s first fully electric cherry farm—where innovation meets sustainability. Subscribe for in-depth coverage of the electrification revolution!
The Tractor Lap
We just made history as the first tractor to lap Highlands Motorsport Park and we’re calling it: slowest EV record officially set 🐢⚡
Thanks to the team at TVNZ's Breakfast for the great chat and helping us spread the message that electric isn’t just for city streets — it’s for orchards, farms, and yes… even racetracks 🚜
Seven Sharp
Rachel Parkin of Seven Sharp recently visited Forest Lodge Orchard in Cromwell to cover their innovative "Adopt a Tree" programme. This initiative allows individuals to select and name a cherry tree within the orchard, enabling them to follow its growth and development throughout the season. Participants receive updates and, during harvest, enjoy the fruits of their adopted tree. This programme not only fosters a personal connection between consumers and sustainable farming but also supports the orchard's commitment to zero-emission, fully electric operations.
BNZ Business Partner
As the world’s first fully electric farm, Forest Lodge has embraced renewable energy, electrification, and innovative growing techniques to create a more sustainable and profitable future. With BNZ’s Green Business Loan and tailored financial support, the orchard has swapped out diesel for electric, proving that sustainability and smart business go hand in hand. This visit highlights how partnerships can drive real change in agriculture, setting a new standard for the industry.
TVNZ - Monarch Tractor
In July 2023, TVNZ's Hyundai Country Calendar featured Forest Lodge Orchard in Cromwell, highlighting their adoption of New Zealand's first fully electric, driver-optional tractor—the MK-V Monarch. This innovative machinery aligns with the orchard's commitment to sustainability, making it the world's first 100% electric, zero-fossil-fuel orchard. The episode showcased the tractor's capabilities and its role in revolutionising sustainable farming practices.
Ecotricity
Ecotricity NZ recently featured the Monarch MK-V, New Zealand's first fully electric, driver-optional tractor, in a spotlight segment. This innovative tractor, operating at Forest Lodge Orchard in Cromwell, exemplifies a significant advancement in sustainable agriculture. The MK-V not only reduces emissions but also enhances operational efficiency through its autonomous capabilities. Ecotricity's coverage highlights how this technology is revolutionising farming practices in New Zealand.
Country Calendar
We took centre stage on Country Calendar. The episode highlighted the orchard’s innovative use of renewable energy, including its solar-powered operations and electric farm machinery, setting a new standard for environmentally friendly agriculture in New Zealand
Want to make a story about Electric Cherries?
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We love sharing the story of Electric Cherries and the innovations happening at Forest Lodge Orchard. Whether you're a journalist, content creator, or just passionate about sustainability, we're happy to chat about:
Electric farming – how we’re running an orchard with zero fossil fuels.
Solar-powered agriculture – our 160 kW system and energy independence.
Sustainable cherry growing – from soil health to regenerative practices.
The future of food production – innovation, automation, and electrification.
The cherry industry in NZ – challenges, opportunities, and our vision.
Got an idea for a story? Let’s talk!
More Forest Lodge News Spots
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A New Zealand Food Story w Ben Bayly
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TVNZ Breakfast: A Tractor Hot Lap to Remember
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Seven Sharp Feature
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Upcoming Feature: A New Zealand Food Story w Ben Bayly
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Featured by EECA: Farming with Sunshine
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Rural Life ODT: Electric Hilux
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Otago Daily Times: Driving New Zealand’s Energy Transition
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Ecotricity NZ: A 100% Electric Farm That Runs on Sunshine
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Otago Daily Times: The Power of Generating Our Own Electricity
Paddy Gower's The F#$%ing News
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F+B Tech Magazine Feature
1 News Feature
Hyundai Country Calendar Episode
Cromwell innovator launches electric frost fighting system
Air NZ - Kia Ora Magazine
Cherry orchard preparing for electric future
Southern Lens - Electric Orchard
Sustainable energy association awards Forest Lodge Orchard innovation
SEANZ Fronius New Zealand Sustainable Energy Industry Awards 2021
NZ's electricity crisis. Doing our bit and the need for Distributed Energy Resources (DER)
NZ Herald: Small Business: Turning cherry orchard electric pays off
Otago Daily Times: Turning cherry orchard electric pays off
2021 Sustainability Awards Finalist
Kia Ora Magazine May Edition - The cherry on top
24/25 Season Harvest Snaps
