Growing Community From The Ground Up – The Story of Gill Brothers Produce

Originally from Punjab, India, Gurwinder moved to New Zealand after completing a Commerce degree, continuing his education with a Diploma in Business from CPIT (now Ara). 

Gurwinder spent his first ten years after graduating, working for another local grower, gaining experience in local farming practices. From the start, he was open about his dream to one day launch his own farming business, and with support and encouragement, that dream became a reality. In 2012, Gurwinder was nominated for and attended the Young Grower of the Year in Pukekohe – one of only two South Island representatives. 

Veggie stand

From roadside stall to farm shop 

In 2019, Gill Brothers Produce began with just two hectares of land and a small roadside stall with an honesty box on Shands Road. The local community quickly supported this fledgling business. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Gill Brothers went the extra mile, delivering free vegetable boxes to people who had lost their jobs in Rolleston. Those who could afford to pay, did and those who couldn’t were never turned away. 

The honesty system revealed something special, an age-old trust between grower and community. Encouraged by the support, the brothers expanded, first with a small hut for produce, and by 2023 they had opened a full farm shop on the property at 1210 Shands Road, Selwyn. The shop sells both homegrown produce and other locally sourced seasonal favourites. 

What’s in season 

Gill Brothers specialises in outdoor growing and offers an impressive range of fresh vegetables including onions, brassicas, coriander, mustard leaves and carrots. 

The family pride themselves on offering affordable, high-quality vegetables picked fresh from the paddock, so customers can enjoy the flavour and vibrancy of truly fresh food. 

Harvesting the broccoli

A family tradition 

Farming is a proud Gill family legacy. Gurwinder and Amrinder run the business with help from their partners and a small, dedicated team.  

Amrinder was already in New Zealand when Gurwinder first arrived, working in the horticulture sector in Selwyn. He was thrilled at the opportunity to begin Gill Brothers with his brother.  

The vegetable shed

Taste the difference 

Gurwiner encourages customers to try in season vegetables such as mustard leaves, pumpkins and to taste the difference of a crisp freshly harvested broccoli, cauliflower, or cabbage. Nothing beats the flavour of newly picked produce. 

At the heart of Gill Brothers Produce is a deep belief in community, freshness, and honesty. Whether you're stopping in for your weekly veggies or discovering the joy of mustard greens for the first time, you're not just supporting a farm – you're becoming part of a story rooted in care, tradition and local pride. 

Visit the Gill Brothers Produce Farm Shop at 1210 Shands Road, Selwyn.