Cyclone-ravaged orchardists facing balance sheet woes
Many companies are financially mortally wounded by the effects of Cyclone Gabrielle and may have to sell up because of their high debt levels.
He brings to the role considerable experience in the wine and fruit industry in the Hawke's Bay, including heading up th Hawke's Bay Fruitgrowers' Association in the aftermath to Cyclone Gabrielle.
In a post announcing his appointment, Smith said his vision for the industry was to consolidate and continue to expand, leveraging the investments that growers have made and will make in new varieties, and growing and harvesting methods that ensure consumers get the best taste experience possible, season after season.
"This approach will ensure that summerfruit growers prosper andf returns improve."
