About Us
Take one unused, modern, state-of-the-art factory and one innovative entrepreneur and you have the story of Prime Smoke Salmon.
Managing Director Henry Studholme saw an opportunity when he purchased a 3.64ha property in Hororata that included an abandoned honey processing plant in very good order.
Wondering what kind of processing he could venture into, a friend suggested he smoke salmon. With that, Henry took himself off to the local library and researched for hours old Scottish smoked salmon recipes. He brought an old smoker at an auction and, with a business partner, embarked on a product development trial. And the rest, as they say, is history.
That was almost 20 years ago. What was developed has evolved into a unique and flavoursome brand of smoked salmon loved by Kiwis and salmon lovers the world over.
- Henry Studholme, Director -
Our People
Henry and Jenny Studholme
Founders
We formed Prime Foods NZ Ltd in 1994 primarily to smoke salmon – we also produce gravalax & smoked mussels – and have enjoyed seeing the business grow over the years and providing employment to the local community. Also export markets have been established to provide good all year round sales. We have met many interesting people and look forward to continuing to grow the company.
Outside of Prime Foods we enjoy golf, skiing, watching All Black & Crusaders rugby with friends – and spending time with our expanding family including nine grandchildren (and counting!)
Our favourite way to have salmon is a lovely hot smoked with roasted garlic and peppercorn on pasta.
Henry and Jenny Studholme
Founders
Vicky Martin
General Manager
I started at Prime Foods in the pack room in February 2009 and enjoy the busy production site - plus the staff are great to work with. Passing many food safety audits and compliance challenges and seeing sales continue to grow is very rewarding. My involvement in developing export markets has kept my job challenging and interesting.
Together we have passed many food safety audits & compliance challenges and continually strive to do things better. We are all very proud of the products we make and the work environment we have.
Outside of work I love getting in the garden or out on the farm and watching my children playing sport.
My favourite way to have salmon is a Smoked Salmon Cutlet seared on the barbecue with a nice salad.
Vicky Martin
General Manager
Kieron Rooney
Engineering Manager
I started with Prime Foods in October 2007 - my background has always been engineering, mainly in aircraft and stock food industry before coming to Prime Foods. My role has grown into construction, machinery purchasing, training and assisting in the overall running & processing plant operations.
I enjoy working at Prime Foods as there is no end to the challenges put before us as the food industry bar continues to be raised.
Outside of work I like to get out fishing, get away in the camper van, and teach my grandchildren engineering skills.
My favourite way to have salmon is cold smoked shavings on toast.
Kieron Rooney
Engineering Manager
Kaylene Dunlop
Administration
I have been with Prime Foods since 2001, starting as a cleaner progressing to packing on the night shift before moving to the day shift and then into the office. I like the family orientation of the Prime - it feels like one big family. Also the location - what a view we have each day from our office windows!
Outside of work I enjoy just socialising and running around after the family!
My favourite way to have salmon is hot smoked on a salad or homemade fish pie (very extravagant I know). Salmon cutlets (steaks) are also a hit with homemade french fries.
Kaylene Dunlop
Administration
Rosa Watson
Administration and sales
I arrived at Prime Foods in July 2013 as assistant to the management team. It's a varied role that I love! My favourite thing about working at Prime is the innovative and enterprising environment.
In my spare time I enjoy live music, hitting the golf course, heading up the hill for a ski, and taking part in community theatre.
I have the added bonus of joining the family business as the youngest daughter of Henry and Jenny. Great to be on board!
I love salmon shavings cooked through pasta with some basil pesto. Yum!
Rosa Watson
Administration and Sales