Peter and Michelle Pan of Healthy and Fresh 

2025 Auckland Finalists: Peter and Michelle Pan of Healthy and Fresh – Horticulture

This family-owned company established in 2008 has grown into a major supplier of fresh produce and ethnic food to supermarkets across New Zealand.  

Healthy and Fresh is led by Managing Director Peter Pan, with management support from Director Michelle Pan. They lead a team that manages two divisions – a distribution centre in Mangere and a farm division in Karaka.  

The 28ha farm features 15 greenhouses that span 60,000 square meters. In 2020, the company embarked on an ambitious project to establish the largest hydroponic farm for leafy greens in New Zealand. This led to the implementation of a cutting-edge hydroponic nutrient film technique system that ensures efficient water and nutrient use.  

Energy efficiency is prioritised, with sunlight used as the primary energy source. Meanwhile, innovative pest control methods minimise the need for spraying. 

More than 100,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted along riparian areas, stabilising the soil, reducing erosion and supporting the sustainability of the broader ecosystem’s waterways. 

Healthy and Fresh specialises in leafy greens and melons, cultivating 30 different varieties. The team is striving to introduce more varieties of Asian greens to Kiwi households, enriching their meals with fresh and diverse produce. 

Driven by a strong interest in innovative agri-technologies, the team plans to further refine its sustainable farming model. Ultimately, their aim is to achieve a consistent supply of safe and healthy vegetables that is less dependent on weather conditions. They believe this will enhance New Zealand’s food security and contribute to a more sustainable food system. 

Healthy and Fresh exemplifies the potential of sustainable agriculture, demonstrating that high-quality, locally grown produce can be successfully produced while minimising the impact on the environment.