Full Breakdown
New Zealand Horticulture Sector Faces Challenges Amidst Growth
8/27/2025, 9:25:27 PM
Overview of the Horticulture Conference
The New Zealand horticulture sector recently convened in Wellington for a two-day conference attended by over 800 stakeholders, including growers, regulators, and government officials. The event highlighted both the successes and challenges facing the industry, with a focus on resilience in the face of adverse weather, rising costs, and regulatory reforms. Kate Scott, Chief Executive of Horticulture New Zealand, emphasized the need for resilience among growers, stating, “If there’s one word that sums up the past year in New Zealand horticulture, it’s resilience.”
Celebrating Achievements and Addressing Challenges
The conference celebrated a predicted record export revenue of over $8.4 billion for the year ending June, alongside advancements in large-scale water storage projects. However, attendees also discussed significant challenges, including the impact of recent floods in the South Island and unstable energy supplies. Associate Agriculture Minister Nicola Grigg acknowledged the government's role in supporting the sector but stressed that success ultimately lies with the growers themselves.
Regulatory Reforms and Government Support
A key focus of the conference was the new implementation roadmap of the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan, which outlines 24 priority areas and 76 actions aimed at sustainable growth. Grigg expressed high expectations for the uptake of this plan among growers. Finance Minister Nicola Willis addressed concerns regarding the Resource Management Act (RMA), stating, “We want our regulatory settings to have a default of ‘yes’ rather than ‘no’.” She emphasized the importance of a stable consenting environment for the growth of the horticulture sector.
Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics
The conference also explored changing consumer behaviors, with Jim Haworth, Chief Executive of Peak Global Holdings, noting a shift towards online shopping for convenience. Australian consultant Tristan Kitchener highlighted New Zealand's price-sensitive market, where consumers are increasingly seeking promotions amid a cost-of-living crisis. The Commerce Commission's grocery commissioner, Pierre van Heerden, urged growers to communicate their experiences with supermarket buyers to improve market dynamics.
Financial Performance and Future Outlook
Horticulture New Zealand reported a revenue increase to over $18 million for the year ending March, resulting in a surplus of $1.2 million. However, they anticipate a deficit in the upcoming financial year. The annual general meeting also saw growers voting to increase remuneration for directors and the president by 2.2%. The advocacy group made 49 submissions to local and central government, reflecting their active engagement in addressing industry challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If there's one word that sums up the past year in New Zealand horticulture, it's resilience.” — Kate Scott, Chief Executive, Horticulture New Zealand
- “Our old foe, the RMA. We want our regulatory settings to have a default of ‘yes’ rather than ‘no’.” — Nicola Grigg, Associate Agriculture Minister
- “Consumers expect to shop when and where they want.” — Jim Haworth, Chief Executive, Peak Global Holdings
- “He said the grocery code excluded the relationship between suppliers and wholesalers, which it was looking into.” — Pierre van Heerden, Grocery Commissioner
The conference underscored the New Zealand horticulture sector's resilience and adaptability in the face of ongoing challenges, while also setting a roadmap for future growth and sustainability.
