A 16-year-old is turning a love of food into a small business, making fresh sushi rolls designed especially for children’s school lunches.

Rama Apiata has begun selling homemade sushi rolls with the help of her mum, Lainie Asher, after reviving an idea the pair first discussed a couple of years ago.

“We came up with the idea when I was about 14,” Rama said. “But while I was at high school I didn’t really have enough time. Now that I’ve finished school, I have a lot more time to do it.”

Working together in the kitchen has been a positive experience for the mother-daughter team, with Rama inheriting her mum’s love of cooking.

The sushi rolls are designed with children in mind, offering a simple, familiar flavour and good value for families packing school lunches.

“You get a lot for what you pay for and the prices are reasonable,” she said. “Kids like sushi, and it’s fun to put in their lunches.”

Although the venture is still new, demand has already exceeded expectations. The first batch sold out quickly after the pair advertised the rolls on Facebook.

“I had doubts that it wouldn’t work or that we wouldn’t sell much,” Rama said.

“But we ended up selling out the first time.”

Customers have also responded positively, with parents reporting that their children enjoyed the sushi.

Rama said the process has already become easier as they refine their routine.

“The first time we rushed a bit, so our time management wasn’t on point,” she said. “But since then it’s gotten quicker because we’ve gotten used to it.”

The rolls come in teriyaki chicken with avocado and Japanese mayonnaise and are sold for $6.50 each, or two for $10.

Orders are taken through a Facebook business page called “Rama’s Sushi”, where customers can message directly to place an order.

The pair will also be selling every second Wednesday morning from 7.30am at the Maraetotara carpark.

The sushi sales are being run as a fundraising effort, as Rama is raising money to travel to Sydney, Australia next year to complete a sushi-making and Japanese cooking course.

The training also requires specialised Japanese knives – a Deba and a Yanagiba – which cost around $300.

Rama said starting the small venture has been exciting and gives her a sense of independence.

“I think it’s pretty cool. It’s something I can do independently, and it’s fun.”

A keen cook who often prepares meals at home, she said the business has also become a creative outlet.

“I’ve always loved food, so I love doing this. I hope it turns into a reliable business.”

For Rama, what started as a simple idea has quickly become the first step toward turning her passion for food into a thriving small business.

To order, direct message the “Rama’s Sushi” Facebook page or visit the stall every second Wednesday from 7.30am at the Maraetotara carpark.