Horticulture New Zealand has initiated an awareness drive, the Taste the Yakka campaign, to rally support for local fruit and vegetable producers. This initiative seeks to underscore the hard work, commitment, and innovative practices employed by growers in various regional communities throughout New Zealand. The campaign is inviting New Zealanders to pledge their support, offering an incentive of a year's supply of Wonky Box fruit and vegetables.
A digital component of the campaign features a short video designed to guide viewers through the sensory experiences of New Zealand's horticulture, showcasing the distinct taste of locally cultivated produce. Horticulture NZ, representing over 4500 commercial fruit and vegetable growers, aims to bridge the gap between New Zealanders and the origins of their fruit and vegetables, emphasizing the industry's significant role in daily life and social gatherings.
Nadine Tunley, the outgoing chief executive, highlighted the challenges faced by growers, including adverse weather, regulatory burdens, and escalating production costs, yet praised their perseverance in continuing to supply nutritious produce. The horticulture sector, with an estimated value of $7.48 billion for the 2023/24 period, plays a crucial role in the New Zealand economy.
One spotlighted sector within the industry is avocado cultivation, primarily concentrated in the Bay of Plenty, Whangārei, and the Far North regions, known for their conducive climate and fertile lands. The country boasts around 1350 growers managing over 4000 hectares, predominantly of the Hass avocado variety, supported by a network of packhouses, marketing firms, and exporters that facilitate both domestic and international sales.
Source: The Country