NZKGI Responds to Migrant Worker Exploitation Reports
Where any worker in the kiwifruit industry is mistreated, we expect the authorities to take action.
Pioneer potato growers the Balle family are taking their business a step further.
The family business, growing potatoes in and around Pukekohe and the Waikato for more than three generations, have teamed up with chipmakers to inspire a new brand.
The 'Chip Off the Old Block' range potato chips will be made using only their potatoes.
On each packet, you can find information about what variety of potato was used and where they were sourced from.
Dacey Balle, one of seven brothers from thirteen children to Bernie and Norah Balle, says the family takes its potatoes seriously.
"And surely, great chips need to start with great potatoes," he says.
"The 'Chip Off the Old Block' recipe is based on a few quality ingredients, just as you might find them in your own pantry – great potatoes, sunflower oil, natural seasonings – and that's it.
"And, as little as possible is done to them through the manufacturing process, for the flat cuts the skins are left on and potatoes are sliced nice and thick."
'Chip Off the Old Block' chips will be available in major supermarkets.
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
Twenty-eight emerging leaders from across the horticulture sector spent two days last month learning valuable skills and connecting with industry experts.
There are five entrants in this year’s Young Horticulturist of the Year, competing in a series of technical, practical, business and leadership challenges.
A seasoned horticulturist has been appointed to deliver the Apple Action Plan, a key initiative of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
New Zealand's citrus growers have been told to compete on the value built into their fruit rather than the volume they grow.
Hawke's Bay fruit growers are being reminded of the need to prepare for whatever the El Niño weather system may bring in the coming months.

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