increase font size
Prime Minister John Key.
Prime Minister John Key congratulated the horticulture industry for its great advancement in the last few years.
Last year the industry grew about 17% to reach $5 billion and it had the ambitious goal of getting to $10 billion by 2020, he told the Horticulture NZ conference in Nelson today, via a video message.
"That fits in with the government's role of wanting to double exports by 2025.
"There are a lot of great things happening in your sector, it is fantastic to see kiwifruit coming back from the terrible effects of Psa; good to see the significant investment in areas like apples."
He was in Motueka recently looking at the hops sector. "There is certainly a lot happening, and the government of course is working very hard to try and open up new markets. The Korea FTA was an important one from the tariffs perspective, TPP will certainly help, if we can get better access to Europe that's a big advantage and also the Gulf States."
He said he knew the horticulture sector was very focussed on research and development and science and technology – bringing the best techniques to both growing the fruit and making sure that it gets to market in the best possible condition.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
James Blair, an agronomist for AS Wilcox and the Pukekohe regional champion, has won the 2026 Young Grower national title.
Blueberries have the potential to become a major horticultural export, earning up to $150 million within the next three to five years.
New Zealand needs to make sure that it continues to focus on its own food security, according to HortNZ board member and blueberry grower Dermott Malley.
According to a progress report on the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan (AHAP), New Zealand's horticulture sector is making real progress on the big issues facing growers.
National’s pledge to introduce 19 new national standards shows the party is serious about getting Wellington out of farming, Federated Farmers says.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Fonterra Co-operative Group chief financial officer Andrew Murray has resigned to take up a role outside the dairy giant.
A major move is about to get underway to improve the quality and viability of dairy beef and cattle in NZ.
Veterinarians say changes to the code of welfare for dairy cattle provides a positive foundation for improved cattle welfare across the country.
Today, 15 October, is the International Day of Rural Women, which recognises rural women’s contribution to farming, communities and the environment.
OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…
