A Little Background

Orcona Chillis 'n Peppers was started in the year 2000, producing a range of about 12 different chilli varieties for sale fresh to local restaurants and retailers, and for sale through Orconas stand at the Hawkes Bay Farmers Market. Anne Prescott and Kevin Baker grow the chilli plants in 2,500 sq metres (27,000 sq feet) of temperature controlled greenhouses at Pakowhai in the heart of the "Fruit bowl of New Zealand" as the Hawkes Bay region is known.

During these past five years the Orcona brand has grown to encompass an expanding range of 100% pure chilli based relishes, sauces and dried chilli products. Anne and Kevin produce all of these products on site in Orcona's own commercial kitchen, with no added bulking agents, preservatives, artificial colouring or flavouring. Anne's long background in the food industry ensures that all product adheres to the Orcona philosophy of full flavour 100% pure products, and maintains Orcona's position as the premium brand of N.Z. Chilli products.

As well as growing Chillis, Orcona also produce a wide range of Chilli based relishes, sauces, and infused oils. All of Orcona's products are pure, with no added Tomato, bulking agents, colours, flavourings or preservatives.

Orcona Chilli's 'N Peppers are the only New Zealand producers of Smoked Paprika Flakes, which is produced in a special process using Manuka wood, a renewable native timber with aromatic properties which produce flavours that are simply superb.

In 2002 at their first entry, their Minted Chilli Jelly was awarded best jelly in the Australian "Fiery Foods" Festival awards.