best variety of orange tree

Popular Orange Tree Varieties in New Zealand

With several outstanding varieties available, it’s important to focus on the unique strengths of each. Below, discover some of the best-loved options for Kiwi backyards:

1. Orange Barnfield

The Orange Barnfield is renowned for its reliable cropping and sweet, classic orange flavour. This variety thrives in New Zealand’s temperate climates, producing medium to large fruit with a balanced sweetness and tang. Its robust growth habit and tolerance to coastal conditions make it a trusted choice for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike.

2. Orange 'Best Seedless'

If you prefer an easy-eating orange, Orange 'Best Seedless' lives up to its name. The seedless fruit are perfect for lunchboxes and juicing. This variety is favoured for its medium size, thin peel, and consistently sweet flavour. It’s a fantastic option in areas where you want low-maintenance, family-friendly fruit trees.

3. Orange 'Harwood Late'

For those who like to extend their harvest season, Orange 'Harwood Late' offers fruit well into late winter. This late-maturing variety produces high-quality, well-flavoured oranges that store well on the tree. It’s perfect for ensuring a fresh supply when other varieties have finished.

4. Orange 'Washington Navel'

The Orange 'Washington Navel' is often regarded as the best variety of orange tree for eating out of hand. Navels are prized for their seedless, easy-to-peel fruit and their juicy, sweet segments. The trees are reliable croppers, adapting well to NZ’s conditions and making them a popular choice for home gardens.

5. Orange 'Valencia'

If making home-squeezed orange juice is a family tradition, the Orange 'Valencia' is the variety you want. This world-famous juicing orange produces abundant, flavourful fruit with a bright, tangy taste. Its extended fruiting season means you can often enjoy fresh oranges over many months.

How to Choose the Best Variety of Orange Tree

When selecting the best variety of orange tree for your garden, consider your local climate, desired harvest season, and whether you prefer seedless, easy-peel, or high-juice fruit. Citrus trees need full sun, well-draining soil, and protection from strong winds, especially in cooler parts of New Zealand.

Get Started With Your Favourite Orange Tree

No matter your preferred flavour or harvest time, there’s a perfect orange tree to suit every Kiwi gardener. Browse our full range of orange trees, including Orange Barnfield, Orange 'Best Seedless', Orange 'Harwood Late', Orange 'Washington Navel', and Orange 'Valencia', to start growing the best variety of orange tree in your backyard today.