The opportunities for growth are significant

As I spent time in Bannockburn this summer and saw my neighbours working long hours in their own vineyards and orchards, it gave me a renewed appreciation for the dedication that growers across New Zealand pour into their work every day.

Talking with growers over the summer, I heard stories of perseverance, innovation, and an enduring passion for growing nutritious food that feeds our country and the world.

Despite the challenges of recent years, there's a shared optimism in our community, an understanding that New Zealand horticulture is not just surviving but thriving.

The numbers tell the story. According to the latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report, export revenue is projected to reach a record $8 billion, a 12 percent increase by 30 June 2025.

The report predicts kiwifruit exports are set to exceed $3 billion for the first time and Apples and Pear exports are set to exceed $1 billion, reflecting strong international demand for New Zealand’s premium produce.

Fresh and processed vegetable export revenue is expected to rebound and increase by 7 percent reaching $770 million while cherries are forecast to increase 7 percent to $98 million. A forecast rebound for avocados will see export revenue increasing 147 percent to $91 million.

Our industry consistently punches above its weight on the global stage. As consumers worldwide seek healthier, more sustainable choices, New Zealand horticulture is poised to deliver. We’re a low-emissions, plant-based industry with the capability and reputation to meet this growing demand.

Looking ahead to 2025, the forecast for horticulture is strong, but we know that strength and resilience don’t come by chance. They are the result of continuous improvement, innovation, and advocacy for sensible regulation.

Programmes like A Lighter Touch are helping growers reduce agrichemical use and adopt agroecological practices. Initiatives like Growing Change support environmental planning to improve water quality in horticultural catchments. These efforts ensure that our industry meets the highest standards, because in a global market, our reputation is everything.

But our growers can’t do it alone.

We’ve welcomed the coalition Government’s interest in reforming processes that hinder our progress — from the review of the EPA approvals process to an overhaul of the Resource Management Act. Sensible regulation is essential if we are to safeguard domestic food supply and maintain New Zealand’s global competitiveness.

Since the formation of Horticulture New Zealand in 2005, the strength of our industry has come from unity. Whether it’s apples bound for export markets or vegetables nourishing our domestic tables, fruit and vegetable growers depend on each other.

This unity led to the launch of the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan in 2023, with the ambitious goal of doubling horticultural production by 2035. It’s a goal that reflects the shared vision of growers, government, iwi, and researchers.

Twenty years from now, I hope we’ll look back and see this plan as a turning point — a milestone that set us on the path to greater prosperity and sustainability.

Of course, there are challenges ahead. Access to reliable water, the impacts of climate change, labour shortages, and unworkable regulations are ever-present concerns. Water storage solutions, sensible freshwater rules, and support for climate adaptation are not optional; they are essential if we want to secure the future of fresh fruit and vegetables for all New Zealanders.

Our industry’s future also relies on people — on supporting young growers through initiatives like Young Grower of the Year and encouraging more young people to see horticulture as a rewarding career. The talent and energy of our next generation are key to our continued success.

The opportunities for growth are significant.

Supporting Māori horticulture, diversifying land use, and fostering collaboration within and beyond our sector will be crucial. New Zealand horticulture covers just 0.1% of our land area yet contributes over $7.4 billion in value and only 1.1% of greenhouse gas emissions. We’re an essential part of New Zealand’s strategy to meet climate goals while increasing export revenue.

As we step into 2025, I’m optimistic about the future. Being in Bannockburn this summer reminded me that, at its core, horticulture is about nurturing growth — not just in the land, but in our people, our practices, and our potential.

By working together, we can ensure that New Zealand horticulture continues to thrive, delivering fresh produce to our tables and premium products to the world. Let’s make 2025 a year of strength, resilience, and opportunity.