Across the globe, artisan cheese is experiencing a renaissance, with consumers seeking authentic flavors, sustainable practices, and a deeper connection to the origins of their food. This shift is driving growth in small-batch, handcrafted cheese—where provenance, craft, and environmental stewardship matter as much as taste. In New Zealand, a country renowned for its lush pastures and clean air, the artisan cheese industry is flourishing, blending heritage techniques with a modern commitment to quality and sustainability. It’s within this landscape that Whitestone Cheese Co. stands out as a true standard-bearer. From its beginnings in a humble Oamaru garage to its current status as an award-winning producer, Whitestone has built its legacy on the rich soils of North Otago, the dedication of its people, and an unwavering respect for tradition. Every wheel and wedge tells a story of place, craft, and the enduring power of family—a testament to what’s possible when passion and provenance are at the heart of every bite.
Powered by Place, Perfected by People
Whitestone Cheese’s unmistakable quality stems from the rich agricultural backdrop of the Waitaki region. Blessed with clean alpine water, mineral-rich limestone soils, lush pasturelands, and a temperate climate, North Otago provides an ideal environment for dairy farming. This natural bounty is harnessed with care — the milk is sourced fresh from nearby farms and delivered daily to the Oamaru factory, where the cheesemaking process is overseen with precision and a deep respect for tradition. The result is a line of cheeses that carry the unmistakable signature of place. But excellence isn’t achieved through ingredients alone — it’s the people behind the process that make it extraordinary. From slow aging in temperature-controlled environments to expert hand-cutting and wrapping, every stage is handled with dedication and an unwavering attention to detail. Whitestone’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every facet of its operation. The factory runs on 100% hydroelectric power, packaging is recyclable or compostable, and whey byproducts are repurposed as local stock feed. The company’s pathogen testing program goes well beyond government requirements, with dual-stage testing that ensures every product is not only delicious but exceptionally safe. Their environmentally responsible practices extend to reducing paper waste, promoting reusable packaging, and constantly seeking out better ways to operate as stewards of the land. This is cheese made not only with integrity, but with foresight and care.
Celebrating Craft, Family, and the Flavour of Home
At its heart, Whitestone Cheese Co. is a family story — one of resilience, innovation, and connection. Bob and Sue Berry, who remain deeply involved in the business, have created more than a successful cheese company; they’ve cultivated a community. From the dairy farmers in the Waitaki Valley to the cheesemongers, food scientists, logistics coordinators, and the friendly faces behind the counter, everyone at Whitestone shares a common purpose: to create cheese that truly reflects the place and people it comes from. Their factory in Oamaru is more than a production site — it is the soul of the brand. The new Diner & Motel experience, located just off State Highway 1, has become a destination for visitors seeking to experience the Whitestone story firsthand, complete with behind-the-scenes factory tours and tastings that bring guests closer to the cheese they love. In Auckland, the Whitestone Cheese Bar in Wynyard Quarter brings this same spirit to the city, connecting urban audiences to the rural roots of the product. Whitestone is also deeply invested in its local communities, regularly contributing to regional events, supporting sustainable food initiatives, and showcasing their cheese at farmers markets across the South Island. Their legacy is one of trust, quality, and a profound love for the land. Whitestone doesn’t just make cheese — they make moments of pleasure, shared at tables around the world, grounded in values that never go out of style. This is cheese with character, made by people with purpose, in a place like no other.
To know more visit:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/whitestonecheeseco
Website- https://www.whitestonecheese.com
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