The juice is fresh, but the team behind it? Even fresher.
Introducing Pick of the Bunch, where we spotlight the people who make Picky...well, Picky.
From juice & smoothie obsessives to perfectionist planners, this crew lives and breathes bold flavors, bright ideas, and the relentless pursuit of liquid greatness.
Stay tuned as we peel back the curtain (and maybe an orange or two) to share their stories, quirks, and what keeps them squeezing every drop of passion into Picky.
Obsessed? Us too.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your role?
I have spent 20 years in the food industry, after studying Food Technology at Massey. My day job is Head of Quality, Compliance and R&D at Apollo Foods. Making sure the products we make at Apollo are held to the highest standards for consumers in NZ and around the world. Innovation is the exciting part of the role, bringing new ideas to life through our advanced technology and creative team. Outside of work I am a mother of three sons, and keep myself busy with family, friends and my garden!
Tell us a bit about your connection to the Hawke's Bay region. What makes this place special to you?
I grew up in Taradale, which was a great place as a kid – close to friends & family, lots of fun! After an extended time away from Hawke's Bay, it made the most sense when looking for somewhere to raise our children. No regrets – it’s been fabulous!
When you think about Hastings, what local ingredients or foods immediately come to mind?
Apples!
What’s a typical day like for you here?
Run the dog or gym.
Lunchbox packing, finder of all missing socks, shoes, and school bags.
Coffee.
Relax at work for a bit.
Coffee.
Home – feed the troops, muscle through some homework, have a few pointless arguments with a 15-year-old / 13-year-old / 8-year-old, watch something good on TV.
Sleep.
What’s one thing you love about being in the Hawke's Bay region?
It’s where I grew up and is full of special memories.
Quick-fire questions.
Pick three words to describe yourself when you were 13. Argumentative, freckly, chatterbox.
Which animal do you think would make the best financial analyst? Squirrel.
What’s the video game based on the movie based on the book about your life called? To botox or not to botox (perspective of a middle-aged red-headed woman who has spent too much time in the brutal Hawkes Bay sun).
Is your dishwasher loading rules-based or vibes-led? Hurl it in, safe in the knowledge someone else will come and tidy it up before it goes on.
