All About Real Pet Food & Simply Raw
Firstly, we would like to thank our regular customers, some of which have been with us right from the start, for continuing to be customers while we make the transition from Real Pet Food to Simply Raw.
We welcome new visitors to stop by our store, which is well setup with state-of-the-art freezers and refrigerators for optimum display.
We stand by our dedication to quality assurance for our wide range of pet foods.
Fresh Is Best
At Real Pet Food we process same-day and next-day pet foods and have both fresh and frozen options which are all available in-store. All of our products are available to purchase online from our Products Section. We have delivery options for Christchurch and surrounding areas.
We have an excellent team, general manager, truck driver, pet food preparers and friendly store staff who can assist you with all your pet food needs, including small or larger orders.
Key Team members hold current Registered Pet Food Operator Certificates.
Real Pet Foods History
Real Pet Food was formerly owned and managed by Bernie Hutton until he passed away on 26th November 2023.
Bernie knew from experience that there is a lot of truth in that adage that “those who work for themselves are often the hardest workers”. After working for 56 years straight (as-at Christmas 2017) we respect the work ethic that has built and maintained the trusted reputation of Real Pet Food.
In the early years, Bernie owned his own farm in Canterbury, eventually selling it to purchase a butchers shop in Kumara in 1973. After 5 years Bernie sold the butcher shop to purchase a farm in Springs Junction.
For the next 14 years Bernie was based in Springs Junction, farming beef and sheep, until deciding to sell up and move to Canterbury. The move to Christchurch saw the purchase of a Pet Food Shop based at the Hoon Hay Shopping Centre; “Real Pet Food T/A Hillmorton Pet Foods”. From humble beginnings this small store then moved to Rolleston, and with the help of his partner Sarah, it has now tripled in size, and continues to serve a steady stream of loyal customers.
The introduction of Simply Raw
Real Pet Food was purchased in 2024 by Bernie & Sarah's long term friends, Mathew & Kimberly Thom. Mat & Kim first met Bernie & Sarah when they were setting up their own pet food business Otago Petfoods in Mosgiel, Dunedin. Bernie was a key factor in the set up of this business as he helped Mat from the very beginning, teaching him the basics of processing pet food. Bernie became an integral part of Otago Petfoods as he was their "informal business mentor"! Mat & Kim usually showing their appreciation of his help with beer and oysters!
With the change of ownership came a change of names Simply Raw - The Real Pet Food People!
Simply Raws Future
Mat and Kim look forward to growing the business in the months and years to come with the addition of new products and services - Watch This Space!