New Zealand kiwifruit exporter says investment deal should address bottlenecks and support industry growth
Zespri has welcomed the New Zealand government’s signing of a major economic development plan for the Bay of Plenty, where most of the supplier’s kiwifruit is grown and shipped, describing it as “an important step” towards growth for the region.
In a statement, Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake said the kiwifruit industry supported the Western Bay of Plenty Regional Deal and welcomed its coordinated, long-term approach to infrastructure development.
“The Western Bay of Plenty is critical to Zespri and the kiwifruit industry, with around 80 per cent of our New Zealand fruit grown in the region and more than 95 per cent exported through the Port of Tauranga,” he observed.
“We are already seeing infrastructure constraints, and without action they will worsen as the industry grows. This plan provides greater confidence that bottlenecks will be addressed and gives the industry more certainty to invest to meet future demand, while continuing to deliver value back to growers and the communities they support.”
Te Brake added that the deal would also play an important role in supporting workers in the industry – including seasonal migrant labour, which remains a critical part of the workforce.
“Access to housing and social infrastructure is essential to attracting and retaining the workers the industry and region need. A clear, coordinated plan helps ensure the Western Bay remains an attractive place to live and work,” he said.
With plans to extend the Port of Tauranga currently on hold, improving and expanding port connections is also a critical priority for the kiwifruit industry, he added, and something which Zespri hoped would be actioned as soon as possible.
“We acknowledge the government, Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty Council and Environment Bay of Plenty and mana whenua as well as Priority One and members of the business community who have been involved in today’s announcement.”
