Within the past year, Aotearoa has seen a shift from concern over local produce production and growers' livelihoods towards a recovery period for fruit growers as winter approaches. Disruptions such as Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods presented significant challenges, alongside an unusually warm winter. These factors tested the resilience of growers and business owners, who are now experiencing more stable crop conditions, allowing a renewed focus on sustainability and food waste reduction.
The connection between consumers and growers has strengthened, offering insight into the agricultural challenges and successes. This year marks a positive shift for local fruit growers, with kiwifruit growers in particular anticipating a record-breaking season. Despite the high yields and improved returns, challenges in achieving a perfect harvest persist, with 20,000kg of surplus and non-export quality kiwifruit being redirected to consumers.
Improved growing conditions have led to a 25% drop in fruit and vegetable prices, as reported by United Fresh New Zealand. Citrus yields in Gisborne have been notably high, contributing to the success of export and local market supply. Efforts to reduce food waste have resulted in nearly 3 million kilograms of produce being saved from waste, translating to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
Despite these achievements, Aotearoa continues to face a substantial food waste problem, with an estimated 30-40% of domestically grown produce not leaving the farm, and around 100,000 tonnes of edible food wasted annually. Addressing this issue remains a priority for the sector.
Source: nzherald.co.nz