Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) has expressed support for the government's decision to halt the implementation of the freshwater farm plan. Michelle Sands, the acting chief executive of HortNZ, stated, "We agree with the Government that we need a fit-for-purpose system for freshwater farm plans that works for horticulture and delivers on environmental outcomes." HortNZ advocates for a system that allows growers to meet both market and regulatory demands through a unified approach, incorporating industry assurance programs like New Zealand Good Agricultural Practice (NZGAP) and GLOBALG.A.P. into the Freshwater Farm Plan System.
The organization has also proposed making commercial vegetable production a permitted activity under the Freshwater Farm Plan (FWFP), highlighting that over 80% of vegetables grown in New Zealand are for domestic consumption. HortNZ emphasizes the commitment of New Zealand's growers to adhere to good management practices and supports this through initiatives like the Sustainable Vegetable Systems programme and the HortNZ/Ministry for the Environment Growing Change project, which aids growers in developing their FWFPs through a catchment-led approach.
However, HortNZ has raised concerns over the ability of Regional Councils to develop effective rules for vegetable production, citing restrictions on crop rotation, nutrient supply, and expansion that could potentially hinder the ability to meet the domestic demand for vegetables. The organization calls for a nationally consistent approach to planning rules to ensure the stability of commercial vegetable production in New Zealand, underlining the national importance of vegetable production for the country's food resilience.
Source: Horticulture New Zealand