Cheese History New Zealand

Nestled in the upper reaches of the picturesque Puhoi valley, the Puhoi Valley Cheese Company was founded in 1983. Here, in the sub-tropical winterless north of New Zealand, the perfect conditions produce milk that is rich, flavoursome and delicious. At Puhoi Valley, we lovingly turn that milk into some of the finest quality, specialty cheeses in the world.

Based near the historical village of Puhoi, just 40 minutes north of Auckland, the company has grown from employing two people in 1983 to now employing around 100 people.

Using a hands on approach, Puhoi Valley has a high level of European influence with a truly international team led by Stewart Ray, who is responsible for all cheese making.
In 1998 the company opened a show factory on its existing site.
This facility is a showcase for fine cheese making using traditional methods, which the public can view to see how cheese is made.

July 1999 saw the official opening of a café attached to the show factory. Through large glass panels in the Art of Cheese café, the public can view all facets of the factory while enjoying their specially prepared meals and snacks from products made on site.

In November 2000, ownership of Puhoi Valley went to New Zealand Dairy Foods then in January 2006 ownership went to Goodman Fielder. Throughout Puhoi Valley Cheese has kept the passion for cheese making alive, which is a crucial element of success for Puhoi Valley Cheese.