Whitestone Cheese was founded in 1987 as a diversification during the 1980’s rural downturn and a series of crippling droughts. Bob’s experience in livestock trading was quickly applied to cheese trading. The original factory was set up in Oamaru in a converted garage with milk sourced from local farms and one variety, Whitestone Farmhouse was launched. The business slowly grew as an extension of the farming operation until todays purpose built factory was commissioned in 1998. Son Simon joined the business bringing a new set of skills and the farm was sold to concentrate on growing the exciting family enterprise. The factory now employs over 50 staff and includes a viewing room, factory cheese store. Simon Berry now oversees the business management, cheese making team and production.