A FLORAL JOURNEY

A family dream, 26 acres of volcanic soil, and an unexpected calling – Seven Circles Farm has blossomed into a business deeply rooted in the local community.

Gareth Jones and Kerry Marinkovich moved to Mangawhai in 2021, after completing their first major project together: building an eco home in Maungakaramea and transforming their one-acre block into a thriving orchard and garden while raising their twin boys.

After 12 years on the property, both having completed Permaculture Design and Sustainable Rural Development courses, they were ready for a larger piece of land where they could pursue their dream of living more self-sufficiently. During Covid, an opportunity arose to purchase a 26-acre farm on Tara Road, renowned for its rich volcanic soil. Although considerably larger than they had imagined, the potential was too good to pass up.

Initially, the plan was to establish an organic market garden. However, after settling in and raising chickens, Kerry discovered she preferred growing flowers to vegetables. What began as a small experiment quickly blossomed into a successful flower-growing business. Now approaching her fourth season, she has gradually transformed more of the property into flower beds, complemented by shelter trees that also provide foliage for bouquets.

Kerry's focus is firmly local, selling seasonal flowers at the Mangawhai Beach Market, supplying weddings and events, and offering daily local deliveries and subscriptions. Last year, she also took on the role of running the market, combining her love of flowers with her enjoyment of connecting with the community.

"For us, it's all about growing local and selling local. Having a small footprint on this earth – and helping spread a whole lot of joy with every bouquet we create."

Kerry is also a professional photographer and often combines both passions at weddings. Her photography background influences the way she balances each bouquet, while her love of gardening continues to inspire new ideas for the property.

"Seven Circles Farm is constantly growing and evolving."

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