Friday, 16 August 2024 12:09

Campaign urges Kiwis to support fruit, vegetable growers

Written by  Sudesh Kissun
Nadine Tunley, chief executive of HortNZ. Nadine Tunley, chief executive of HortNZ.

A digital campaign urging New Zealanders to show their support for fruit and vegetable growers has been launched.

The ‘Taste the Yakka’ campaign by Horticulture New Zealand highlights the dedication, passion and innovation that goes into growing fruit and vegetables in regional communities across the country.

As part of the campaign, a short video takes Kiwis on a sensory journey of New Zealand’s horticulture sector, capturing the ultimate taste of locally grown food.

“We want to help all New Zealanders, in towns and cities across the country, connect with where their fruit and vegetables come from,” says Nadine Tunley, chief executive of HortNZ.

“This is especially important when food plays such a key role in people’s lives, bringing together families and friends.

“We know Kiwis believe in an honest day's work and getting on with it. That's exactly what growers are doing every day, rain, hail or shine. This results in some of the best food on earth.

“The video shows the process that our food goes through to get from our growers to your table, the surprises of weather, the research, planning, science, soil, teams, dedication and the passion.”

Tunley says HortNZ wants New Zealanders from all walks of life to support the horticulture sector and stand with farmers in delivering fresh, high-quality produce.

Growers are facing a range of challenges including extreme weather events, challenging government regulations, and rising production costs.

“Every day, I see growers displaying resilience and resolve to overcome these obstacles so they can continue to produce nutritious fruit and vegetables for Kiwi dinner tables. We want New Zealand to join us on this journey,” says Tunley.

Kiwis are being encouraged to sign up to the campaign and pledge their support with a year’s worth of Wonky Box fruit and vegetables up for grabs.

The value of the New Zealand horticulture industry is around $7.48 billion (2023/24) HortNZ advocates for and represents the interests of New Zealand’s 4,500+ commercial fruit and vegetable growers.

More like this

HortNZ supports new water storage plan

Horticulture New Zealand has welcomed the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s decision to advance plans for a new water storage facility on the Heretaunga Plains.

Gabrielle's effects linger on

Two years ago, Cyclone Gabrielle swept through apple and kiwifruit orchards in Hawke's Bay causing massive damage that has changed the region for ever.

Featured

Helping protect sheep from parasites

Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) awards. As part of a series looking at this year’s rural winners, Leo Argent talked with Ginny Dodunski, winner of the Veterinary Impact Award for raising the profile of the Wormwise programme.

Top Māori sheep and beef farms showcase excellence in Ahuwhenua Trophy field days

Recently two of New Zealand's top Maori sheep and beef farms held field days as part of the prestigious Ahuwhenua Trophy competition. The two are: Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust, northeast of Whangarei, and the proprietors of Tawapata Onenui farm on Mahia Peninsula in southern Hawke's Bay. Reporter Peter Burke attended both field days.

National

Machinery & Products

Yamaha acquires Robotics Plus

New Zealand based company Robotics Plus, a specialist in agricultural automation, has announced an agreement for it to be acquired…

Ecorobotix announces NZ dealership

Swiss-based Ecorobotix has announced its entry into the New Zealand market through a strategic partnership with Canterbury-based New Zealand Tractors.

Sorting unwashed potatoes made easy

Downs, a leader in potato reception, automated sorting, and storage, has introduced its new high-throughput optical sorter for unwashed potatoes…

Jumbo X saves time and money

A winner of a prestigious ‘Technical Innovations 2024’ award by FederUnacoma at the EIMA show in Italy, the Maschio Jumbo…

NH unveils specialty tractor

New Holland recently showcased its new-generation T4.120 F specialty tractor, giving New Zealand customers a closer look at the winner…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

No more pines!

Forests planted for carbon credits are permanently locking up NZ’s landscapes, and could land us with more carbon costs, says…

Group hug!

OPINION: Forest & Bird and farmers don't often find themselves on the same side of an issue, with F&G's litigious…

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter