TransAlpine Organics

In the heart of North Canterbury, where rugged landscapes meet resilient communities, TranzAlpine Organics Limited has quietly built a legacy of sustainability that spans generations. As they celebrate their 115th anniversary, this pioneering organic honey producer is not only honouring tradition but redefining what it means to be a responsible food business in Aotearoa.

At the core of TranzAlpine’s operations is a deep respect for nature and its rhythms. Their beekeeping practices are a testament to this ethos: bees are never artificially fed or medicated, and are always left with ample honey reserves to sustain themselves through winter. The company uses only renewable, carbon-neutral wooden honey frames and beehives, designed to keep bees warm and thriving, promoting longevity and natural resilience.

As New Zealand’s largest organic honey producer, TranzAlpine’s commitment to sustainability extends far beyond the apiary. Their processing facility now runs on a sophisticated 22kWh solar system, allowing them to operate 90% off-grid during peak season. Packaging is equally considered—100% recycled rPET, locally sourced to reduce carbon footprint, and engineered for safe, efficient handling and shipping. Even their labels reflect thoughtful design, using 50% less ink and printed on sustainably sourced paper.

However, TranzAlpine’s impact is not limited to its own operations. Since 2017, they’ve partnered with Mt Whitnow Station in an ambitious agricultural regeneration project. Together, they’ve restored nitrogen balance, revitalised earthworm populations, reversed soil degradation, and eliminated the need for artificial fertilisers. This transformation has enabled the planting of over 1,000 native trees, creating a healthier ecosystem for pollinators and people alike.

The company’s vision for a cleaner future includes converting their entire fleet to electric vehicles by 2027. They also prioritise local suppliers and services, supporting hundreds of jobs within their district and reinvesting over $3 million in export revenue into their new organic honey processing facility in the past year alone.

Education and community engagement are pillars of TranzAlpine’s philosophy. Their team regularly hosts training sessions with farming communities, Lions Clubs, and schools, advocating for organic farming and chemical-free alternatives. They’ve placed beehives on school grounds, giving tamariki hands-on experience with pollinators and sparking interest in beekeeping careers. Their support extends to school sports programmes, including sponsorship of tennis tournaments and donations of equipment for soccer and rugby.

TranzAlpine’s leadership also plays a national role, contributing to the development of organic standards and participating in discussions around the impact of genetic engineering on New Zealand agriculture.

TranzAlpine Organics is more than a honey producer. They are stewards of the land, champions of community, and true sustainability heroes—proving that with vision and integrity, food production can nourish both people and the planet.