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HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott.
New Zealand’s horticulture sector is projected to reach a record $8 billion by 30 June 2025.
According to the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report from the Ministry for Primary Industries, kiwifruit exports are set to exceed $3 billion for the first time.
Apple and Pear exports are also predicted to increase, this time to $1 billion.
Fresh and processed vegetable export revenue is expected to rebound and increase by 7%, reaching $770 million while cherries are forecast to increase 7% to $98 million.
A forecast rebound for avocados will see export revenue increasing 147% to $91 million.
Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott says this is “great news” for grower who she says have demonstrated resilience following the extreme weather challenges of 2023.
“However, it is important to remember that greater export revenue for the horticulture sector does not necessarily translate into greater profitability for growers because they are facing increased costs of production,” Scott says.
“We want New Zealand to thrive by sharing our world-class kiwifruit, apples, avocados, onions, cherries, and other produce with millions of consumers globally,” she adds.
Scott says the report reinforces Horticulture New Zealand’s confidence in the sector’s potential to double farm gate revenue by 2035, in line with the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan unveiled last year.
“To achieve this, we need the government to support our industry by fostering resilience to climate change, protecting vital vegetable growing areas, investing in sustainable land and water use, and accelerating research and development,” she says.
“The sector remains committed to collaborating with the Government to ensure horticulture’s continued success, benefiting New Zealand’s economy, environment, and communities,” Scott concludes.
Horticulture Minister Nicola Grigg says she takes her hat off to all NZ growers for the hard yards they have put in over the last few years which have resulted in horticulture exports expected to reach the milestone of $8 billion this year.
Two years ago, Cyclone Gabrielle swept through apple and kiwifruit orchards in Hawke's Bay causing massive damage that has changed the region for ever.
Horticulture New Zealand says an outbreak of fruit fly could have significant impacts for the horticulture sector.
Horticulture New Zealand says the recent discovery of a male Oriental fruit fly in Auckland is concerning for New Zealand growers.
The latest Ministry for Primary Industries report on the state of the primary sector shows that things are starting to look up after a rough 2023-24 season.
An innovative dairy effluent management system is being designed to help farmers improve on-farm effluent practices and reduce environmental impact.
Maori farms from Northland and Northern Hawkes Bay are the finalists in this year’s prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy competition for the top Maori sheep and beef farm.
The supreme dairy exhibit at the New Zealand Dairy Event (NZDE) has a close family link to a cow who has won the same title three times.
Fonterra has updated its plan to divest its global consumer business and integrated businesses, Fonterra Oceania and Fonterra Sri Lanka.
Fonterra has announced new financial incentives for farmers who achieve on-farm emissions targets.
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