The development of local market gardens and greengrocers is intertwined with the history of migration from Guangdong to New Zealand.
For generations of Chinese immigrants, these family-run businesses provided economic stability, community connections and served as a cornerstone for cultural heritage in a new land.
In this engaging presentation, Ruth Lam, co-author of Sons of the Soil: Chinese Market Gardeners in New Zealand and The Fruits of Our Labours: Chinese Fruit Shops in New Zealand, discusses the history of these essential enterprises. Drawing on her research, Ruth shares anecdotes, historical images, and insights into the lives of the families who worked the soil and ran the shops.