Meeting face-to-face with vegetable, fruit growers

HortNZ will be sharing a stand with Potatoes NZ at Site C61, where members of its policy team and Canterbury regional representative Chelsea Donnelly, will be available to meet growers.

"We're always ready to support growers and appreciate taking the opportunity to meet face-to-face," says Scott.

"That's why we encourage everyone to stop by and see us at the event."

These are exciting times for New Zealand's horticulture sector, with export revenues expected to reach a record $8 billion by 30 June - an impressive 12% increase.

However, growers also face significant challenges, including extreme weather, rising costs, and increased regulation.

Biosecurity remains a top priority, highlighted by the recent discovery of a second male Oriental fruit fly in Auckland.

"HortNZ is committed to helping growers navigate these challenges while continuing to grow their businesses and contribute to the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan's goal of doubling the farmgate value of horticultural production by 2035."

HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott.

Donnelly's appointment last year marked the start of a pilot programme introducing four regional representatives.

"Having Chelsea on the ground means growers in the South have a direct link to us," says Scott.

"She regularly visits growers, but she's also just a phone call away for any questions or concerns. She ensures growers' insights and ideas reach Wellington, shaping our discussions with the Government on key policies." 

With this direct connection, HortNZ can tailor industry meetings across the regions to be as relevant and useful as possible for growers.