New forum a boost for Maori growers

Members of the Maori Kiwifruit Growers Forum which was launched recently.

The Maori Kiwifruit Growers Forum was officially launched recently in Tauranga, representing a first for the kiwifruit industry.

The forum has been created to advocate for the interests of Maori growers in the sector and is a partnership between Maori kiwifruit growers, Te Puni Kokiri and Zespri.
Minister for Maori Development, Hon Te Ururoa Flavell attended the launch at Te Hua Whenua Orchard in Welcome Bay.

Zespri CEO Lain Jager said Zespri works for all kiwifruit growers to provide the tools and information they need to grow their businesses, and Maori growers are an important part of the kiwifruit industry.

"This is about supporting the development of a really strong and cohesive eco-system for Maori growers in the New Zealand kiwifruit industry. Maori have recognised the need for this forum, where specific skills and information sharing will help grow the success of their kiwifruit investment, and we are proud to support them," he said.

Eleven committee members including Tiaki Hunia as chairman, have been appointed to lead the forum, which was officially incorporated in March 2017, with Te Puni Kokiri committing funding for the next two years.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Hunia said he expected the forum to provide Maori growers with timely information to support their decision-making and bring increased net returns from their work.

"Longer-term, we hope to lift Maori growers from their current 8 per cent share of Zespri production up to 20 per cent," he said.

"We also want to play a role in providing growers with opportunities to gain education and training to ensure their businesses thrive."

Chief executive of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI) Nikki Johnson said NZKGI welcomed the newly-appointed forum.

"As an advocate for all kiwifruit growers in New Zealand, NZKGI is looking forward to working closely with the Maori Kiwifruit Growers Forum in the future to support this important part of our industry."