About Hortivate
Better crop protection for generations
From pioneering Braeburn apples in the 1950s to today’s advanced protection systems, innovation is at the heart of our family business. Four generations of proven expertise deliver plant structure and protection systems that work harder and last longer.
From pioneering Braeburn apples in the 1950s to today’s advanced protection systems, innovation is at the heart of our family business. Four generations of proven expertise deliver plant structure and protection systems that work harder and last longer.
Guaranteed Crop Protection
Low Operational Costs
Future-proofed Investments
Peace of Mind Performance
Innovation is in our DNA
In 1952, brothers Norman and Eustace Williams were the first in the world to grow Braeburn apples commercially. These visionary Kiwis didn’t stop there – they pioneered bulk handling of apples using wartime aircraft components to build transport trailers, designed their own apple grader and developed many other creative solutions for their operations.
Today, Norman’s grandson Cedric and his family Dustin, Regan and Ashalen continue this tradition of practical innovation as the founder of Hortivate. From our family-owned facility in Motueka, we work with growers across New Zealand to design and build protection systems that enhance productivity and add value to properties for generations.
Engineering-led approach
We combine hands-on growing experience with world-class expertise to deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly with your operation:
- Site-specific analysis and design
- Premium materials and construction
- Installation and project management
- Comprehensive documentation and training
- Ongoing maintenance and support
Global partnerships, local knowledge
Our commitment to New Zealand growers is strengthened by strategic partnerships with global leaders in crop protection:
Valente
- 60+ years of protection expertise
- Operating in over 70 countries
- Focus on the total cost of ownership
- Proven track record of innovation
Arrigoni
- Nearly 90 years in protection solutions
- World-class testing facilities
- European leader in environmental protection
- Specialists in hail netting and rain films
- Rigorous quality certification
- Advanced biosecurity solutions
Every component is tested and certified to meet exacting standards through our partners' state-of-the-art facilities. These partnerships allow us to bring world-class, proven solutions to New Zealand growers while maintaining our focus on local conditions and needs.
Innovation and research
We continuously research local and international best practices, developing and refining growing structures and systems that perform better for you. Through partnerships with industry leaders and ongoing R&D, we're committed to bringing New Zealand growers the latest crop protection solutions.
Commitment to sustainability
We consider both environmental and economic sustainability. Our components are made using environmentally friendly, reusable, and recyclable materials. We help growers build for the future while treading lightly on the land.
Meet our leadership team
Hortivate is proudly family-owned and operated, combining generations of expertise and innovation to serve New Zealand growers.
Cedric French
Founder and R&D Specialist
Dustin French
Business Development
Regan French
Sales – Technical
Ashalen French
Finance & Administration
Yolanda McLean
Customer Support & Operations
Innovation in action: Grafting solutions
We consider both environmental and economic sustainability. Our components are made using environmentally friendly, reusable, and recyclable materials. We help growers build for the future while treading lightly on the land.
