Ōpōtiki grower wins 2025 Kiwifruit Innovation Award
Brett Wotton, an Eastern Bay of Plenty kiwifruit grower and harvest contractor, has won the 2025 Kiwifruit Innovation Award for his work to support lifting fruit quality across the industry.
Kiwifruit exporter Zespri has reported a record 2020-21 season, with bumper tray returns across all categories.
The farmer-owned company puts the solid result down to increased sales, the ongoing expansion of Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit production and great quality fruit underpinned by strong international demand.
The company’s financial results how total global revenue generated by fruit sales reached $3.58 billion, up 14% on the previous year, while total global operating revenue increased by 16% to $3.89 billion. Global sales volumes were up 10% on the previous year to 181.5 million trays.
Direct returns to the New Zealand industry increased 15% to $2.25 billion, overcoming uncertainty generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Earnings are spread through many regional communities including the Bay of Plenty, Northland, Nelson, Gisborne, and the Waikato, providing support to people, communities and businesses across the country.
There were strong returns on both a per tray and per hectare basis:
Zespri chairman Bruce Cameron says the results reflect the continued strong demand for Zespri Kiwifruit around the world, boosted by the industry’s hard work and investment to increase demand and supply.
“After a season where we were forced to make such significant changes to our operations with a focus on keeping our people safe, getting our fruit to the world, and continuing to invest for the future, it’s pleasing to see such encouraging results for the industry,” says Cameron.
“Demand for both Zespri Green and Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit increased and we’re pleased to see growing interest in our newest variety, Zespri Red, which is a testament to our industry’s ongoing investment in innovation and finding new ways to add value for New Zealand and our international production bases.”
Zespri’s chief executive officer Dan Mathieson says the 2020-21 season again showcased the strength of the Zespri brand in delivering value, attracting new consumers and supporting communities.
“The unity of our industry allowed us to respond effectively to incredibly difficult conditions around the world. That response was underpinned by our investment in the Zespri brand, the trust we have built up with our customers and consumers globally and the resilience and adaptability of our supply chain and sales and marketing teams.
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