Zespri global sales top $5 billion for 2024–25 season amid strong demand
Zespri says global sales for the 2024-25 season topped $5 billion on the back of strong demand and market returns.
GOVERNMENT'S PLANS to get more Kiwis into seasonal work and increase the annual Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) cap to 9000 are welcomed by the New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI).
President, Neil Trebilco, says this boost to seasonal workers is essential in delivering the industry's forecasted future growth.
"The kiwifruit industry is recovering quickly from Psa and is poised for big future growth," Trebilco says. "Over the next few years we are going to see a significant increase in Gold3 volume. By the 2017/18 season, growers will be producing up to 40% more fruit and its essential plans are in place now to support this additional volume by providing extra resources right throughout the supply chain.
"Together with HortNZ, Pipfruit NZ and NZ Wine Grape Growers, NZKGI has been urging Government to increase the cap of 8000 RSE workers, and the decision shows their commitment to the future growth of our industries. We're really pleased with the outcome."
NZKGI will work closely with the Government on behalf of New Zealand kiwifruit growers to both ensure Kiwis have the best opportunity for seasonal work; plus continue ongoing support for the RSE scheme.
One of New Zealand’s longest-running pasture growth monitoring projects will continue, even as its long-time champion steps away after more than five decades of involvement.
The Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsmen Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is advising consumers to prepare for delays as insurers respond to a high volume of claims following this week's severe weather.
Additional reductions to costs for forest owners in the Emissions Trading Scheme Registry (ETS) have been announced by the Government.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.

OPINION: If the hand-wringing, cravat and bow-tie wearing commentariat of a left-leaning persuasion had any influence on global markets, we'd…
OPINION: With Winston Peters playing politics with the PM's Indian FTA, all eyes will be on Labour who have the…