HortNZ's response to the Government's response to He Waka Eke Noa

HortNZ, as one of the partners in He Waka Eke Noa, is pleased that the Government has listened, and made changes in its response.

At a high level, the Government’s response will enable growers and farmers to manage their own emissions and plan for the future, while there is still the need for detail in some areas. 

Fruit and vegetables are low emissions foods. Over the past decade, growers have progressively reduced fertiliser application as growing techniques have become more efficient thanks to advances in technology. This trend will continue.

Most growers know their emissions number and are already working on farm plans to further reduce their emissions.

HortNZ is also pleased that the Government is planning to allow growers to use assurance programmes such as New Zealand Good Agricultural Practice (NZGAP) to show that they are meeting their emissions requirements. 

HortNZ actively challenges Government policies and proposals that affect the viability of growing fruit and vegetables. We believe the Government’s approach will enable successful business outcomes while still achieving the required emissions reductions.

We have had positive response from the Government in two areas. One, ensuring the Government price on fertiliser use would be less than what it would have been if agriculture was put into the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). Two, on the potential to have a negative impact on vegetables grown for domestic supply. That is why we are pleased that the pricing criteria includes consideration of the potential impact on New Zealand households.