In New Zealand, a collaborative effort between the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), Fletcher Living, and various partners and volunteers resulted in the rescue of seven tonnes of kiwifruit. Fletcher Living, while developing their Riverhead site, identified the need to find a sustainable outlet for the surplus of nutritious kiwifruit. They engaged NZFN, a leading not-for-profit food distribution organization in Aotearoa, for assistance.
NZFN coordinated with Punchbowl PackCo Ltd, a kiwifruit specialist, to mobilize resources for the harvest at no cost. The operation saw participation from volunteers across NZFN Food Hubs, Fair Food, Grace Foundation, McCain Foods, Fletcher Living, and NZFN staff. The collected kiwifruit was processed and distributed through Auckland-based Food Hubs, aiding in the fight against food waste and insecurity.
Gavin Findlay, CEO of NZFN, emphasized the importance of such partnerships in combating food waste and supporting community needs. Kelsey Bergin, Development Manager at Fletcher Living, highlighted the project as an extension of their commitment to community support and encouraged other businesses to collaborate with NZFN for similar initiatives.
Source: scoop.co.nz