From the Far North to Your Lunchbox: The Story Behind Our Te Rarawa Mandarins

Did you know that the mandarins in tamariki lunchboxes across Aotearoa aren’t just any mandarins? They’re grown right here in New Zealand by Te Rarawa — one of our long-standing iwi partners in the Far North — and they’re a shining example of what’s possible when we prioritise local, community-led sourcing.

At the School Lunch Collective, we believe kai should do more than nourish. It should connect, empower, and give back. That’s why we’re so proud to continue our partnership with Te Rarawa, whose orchard-grown mandarins are packed with goodness and purpose.

These sweet, juicy fruit are more than just a tasty snack. They represent a commitment to supporting Māori growers, strengthening local economies, and promoting food resilience within our communities. Every mandarin served in our school lunches carries with it the values of manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga, and whanaungatanga — care, guardianship, and connection.

However, this season hasn’t come without its challenges. Te Rarawa’s orchards experienced significant rainfall during harvest, which has affected spoilage rates slightly more than usual. So if you’re lucky enough to bring some home or see them in your school’s kai rotation, make sure to pop them into the fridge to keep them fresh for longer.

We’re proud to be part of a food system that puts people and planet first. Because when we choose local, we choose impact — and that’s something worth celebrating.