In New Zealand, the kiwifruit sector is experiencing a productive harvest period, attributed to favorable weather conditions, a stable labor supply, and the quality of the fruit. Colin Bond, CEO of NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI), noted that the Bay of Plenty has seen a continuous and smooth flow of fruit from orchard to pack house due to dry weather, marking a positive turn after four years of various disruptions. These disruptions included a record crop coinciding with a labor shortage two years ago, leading to poor picking practices, and operational challenges due to COVID restrictions in the preceding years.
Labor supply has improved, with an increase in backpackers, Recognised Seasonal Employer staff, and more automation in post-harvest facilities. Despite this, concerns have arisen over Zespri's revised crop estimate, now at 180 million trays, down from an initial 195 million, including a record estimate for SunGold kiwifruit. This revision is less severe than the previous year's adjustment. Efforts are ongoing to refine crop estimates, which are crucial for setting starting prices for growers. Financially, expectations are high for the season, with projected returns for Green and SunGold kiwifruit growers showing an increase from the previous year.
Source: farmersweekly.co.nz