Nimble New Zealand exporters finding opportunity amid shifting trade terms
Global trade wars and uncertain tariff regimes could play into the hands of many New Zealand exporters, according to Gareth Coleman ANZ’s Head of Trade & Supply Chain.
Rockit chief executive Mark O'Donnell says consumer awareness for the brand continues to improve each year.
Some 88% of premium consumers recently surveyed stated they love Rockit.
Sustainability is another focus, with New Zealand part of the pilot market for new sustainable tubes.
“We did a successful trial here in 2022 and are looking to expand this with a bigger volume, along with rolling them out in various global markets.”
O’Donnell says New Zealand growers wanted to see their fruit available to Kiwis and the company has achieved this with the support of Foodstuffs, BP, Farro and independent fresh produce retailers.
“With more acres planted and expansion into the South Island, we have geographic diversity and access to some great blocks of land and partners. Building a fruit supply base that can endure changing climates and extreme weather events enables us to safeguard our year-round supply as we continue to expand our networks and quality reputation worldwide.”
While Rockit is a successful global company, its headquarters will continue to be in Hawke’s Bay, O’Donnell adds.
“Most of our senior team relocated here from Auckland but others in the wider leadership team are based in Auckland, Tauranga and in our global markets. However, Heretaunga, Hawke’s Bay is our home, and our head office will remain here.”
Moves are afoot to get a team of Australians over here to help repair North Canterbury's irrigation machinery, ravaged by the big windstorm of late October.
As you approach Hastings from the south along SH2, the colour of the west-facing hills are a good indicator of a drought.
Global beef trade is expected to grow steadily over the next five years, driven by increasing demand from Asia and strategic export expansions by South American countries.
Carpet maker Bremworth is reinstating solution-dyed nylon (SDN) into its product mix but says wool carpets remain central to its brand.
While New Zealand may be under siege from braindead, flesh-eating monstrosities, that doesn’t mean lambing can stop.
OPINION: As negotiations advance on the India-New Zealand FTA, it’s important to remember the joint commitment made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the beginning of this process in March: for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement.

OPINION: In a memo, rich guy Bill Gates didn't become a climate change denier, but he did give the world…
OPINION: Did the Prime Minister hint last week that the sale of Landcorp assets could be part of the manifesto…