Ataahua Blooms grows slightly wild and unique blooms and foliage in the rich loamy soils of Kimbolton in the Manawatu, selling them nationwide as both fresh and dried blooms and foliage. 

Bursting with creativity, with an eye on the latest trends, Gemma saw an opportunity to utilise one of their farm fields to bring her flower growing dream to life and together with husband, Ben established the flower farm in 2019. 

It’s a real family affair with all of us, including our two children involved. 

We wanted to make the most of land not being actively utilised by our farming operation and the flower farm does this in so many ways.

The field is filled with a mix of annual and perennial flowers and foliage with lush colours and textures changing throughout the seasons, all grown outdoors in the natural environment and hand-picked with care. 

Fast forward from 2019 to 2021 - what a ride! With amazing support and demand for the product we grow we have expanded the operation significantly. We saw an opportunity to offer something unique in this space, and have converted our old woolshed into an amazingly colourful drying area, the ideal place to dry them in an undisturbed, natural environment. The space is also used as a studio where Gemma welcomes workshop attendees throughout the year. 

We love growing the rare and the exotic, blooms and foliage that are unique and unusual to add that special twist and creative flair to the floral works of those we supply. 

Our flowers and foliage are mainly sold wholesale to florists and floral stylists but, we do also sell some at retail as lush seasonal bouquets or subscriptions. 

‘Pancakes’ the pony has had to find a new paddock to enjoy but our flower farm and family are flourishing and take pride in delivering our slightly wild and unique blooms and foliage throughout New Zealand. 

— Gemma and Ben McDougall

Ease of mind - where possible through Gemma’s work she tries to use the most sustainable products, including wool bricks instead of foam for casket sprays, recyclable plastic if needed otherwise she uses paper/tissue products which are able to be recycled.