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chairs surrounding a solid wood table, this is the perfect venue for a small private function, meetings or an intimate party.
we can reach with the tractor,” Johno tells us pointing towards some extremely steep slopes.
Next we wander around the estate with Johno Smith, the estate manager, and quickly realise Simunovich Olive Estate has even more to offer. The Island, a picturesque structure gracefully decorated with silk lining, is perfect as a romantic wedding venue. Completed last year by Johno and his team, it is a great addition to the estate which also houses the Pavilion, which is beautifully fitted for private functions and wedding receptions.
One of the top five olive growers in New Zealand, Simunovich Olive Estate produces over 19 tonnes of extra virgin olive oil per year. Eight different olive varieties are grown, including ones from Greece and Italy as well as a couple that have been grown in New Zealand for more than 180 years.
But we soon discover there is more to do here than eat and drink. Set on one of the estate’s lakes is a range offering clay bird and pistol shooting, archery and knife throwing. Managed by the experienced, 500 year old gun manufacturer Beretta, this recent addition to the estate has proved extremely popular, especially for Christmas functions and team activities. Together with his team of seven, Johno is kept busy from the end of May until late July harvesting over 20,000 olive trees on the estate. “There are more trees we could harvest, but that’s how many
The oil is processed in the on-site factory producing their award winning extra virgin olive oils as well as the growing Olive natural skincare ranges. That’s right, olive oil is not only delicious and good for you to eat, it also makes wonderful natural skincare. In addition to the estate’s olive oil, the skincare ranges include olive leaf extract. The results, a natural and effective skincare range. Who knew, all this going on in the Bombay Hills? Simunovich Olive Estate 49 Main Rd, Bombay | simuolive.co.nz
WHAT A R E K C A R C page 26 www.nourishmagazine.co.nz