Heilala Vanilla began in 2002 as an aid project founded by New Zealander, John Ross, and his family. The Kingdom of Tonga had been ravaged by Cyclone Waka, leaving the Islands and its people shattered. Using their horticultural background and research facilities in Tauranga, the Ross family partnered with a local family in the village of Utungake, in the Vava'u Islands, and together they established a small vanilla plantation that has grown into the world-renowned humanitarian vanilla brand, Heilala Vanilla.

Their practice of true sustainability with the local village has enabled resources for education and infrastructure and is recognised by the local Agriculture Ministry as a true example of a Pacific partnership in practice.

They practice organic growing principles in the most perfect and natural growing environment. The vanilla is grown in organic virgin soil, on coconut husk frames, hand pollinated and dried under the Pacific sun, then stored at optimum conditions to allow the full flavours to develop.

The result is the richest grade of vanilla in the Asia Pacific region with a distinctive aroma, shine and plumpness. Heilala vanilla pods are packaged to order and the Pure Extract and Vanilla Paste are manufactured and dispatched to Executive Chefs, gourmet food manufacturers and a selection of specialty retail outlets.