Ninetrees was founded in 2018  by Masa Takahashi and

Elliot Callender with a simple goal: to grow exceptional citrus in Gisborne,

New Zealand, and create products that genuinely reflect the fruit they come from.

​

We specialise in yuzu and finger limes — two unique citrus varieties prized for their flavour, aroma, and versatility. They're also among the most challenging citrus to grow. But for us, that's part of the appeal.

​

For Elliot, the orchards are deeply personal. One of the properties used by Ninetrees has been worked by his family for four generations, and today he still spends much of his time in the orchard, pruning, maintaining, and harvesting the fruit by hand. Masa, originally from Japan and now proudly calling Gisborne home, brings a lifelong appreciation for yuzu and helps oversee both orchard operations and sales. Together, we share a commitment to producing the highest quality fruit possible.

​

Nothing Convenient About It

Yuzu and finger lime trees are covered in large thorns, making maintenance and harvesting slow, careful work. Every season requires patience, attention to detail, and plenty of protective clothing.

The same philosophy carries through to our products. Our freeze-dried powders are made from whole fruit, and our Yuzu Juice Soda is produced using real Gisborne-grown yuzu harvested from the orchard. There are easier ways to make products. We just don't think they're better.

​

Guided by the Seasons

Unlike products made from artificial ingredients or unlimited supply chains, everything we produce begins with fruit grown on our trees. That means production is tied to the seasons.

When our Yuzu Juice Soda sells out, we wait for more fruit to be ready. When fresh yuzu is out of season, we wait for the next harvest. It's a slower approach, but it's one that keeps us connected to the orchard and ensures the quality of what we produce.

​

Premium Products Without the Fuss

At Ninetrees, we put less emphasis on flashy packaging and marketing, and more emphasis on growing exceptional fruit and creating products we're proud to put our name on.

From fresh citrus and freeze-dried powders to our award-winning Yuzu Juice Soda, everything starts in the orchard and is shaped by the seasons, the land, and the people behind it.