Kiwifruit farmers in New Zealand are starting their season on a high note, according to Colin Bond, the head of New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers. He says that despite some farms still recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle, most are expected to make a profit this harvest season.
Zespri, a major kiwifruit company, has released its forecast for the current harvest. The predictions show a significant increase from last year, when an unexpected frost damaged flowers and young fruit, causing many growers to lose money. Green kiwifruit growers can expect to earn between $75,000 and $91,000 per hectare, up from last season’s $64,930. Gold kiwifruit growers are predicted to earn between $145,000 and $166,000 per hectare, a slight increase from last season’s $143,537.
While it’s still early in the harvest season, Bond is optimistic. He explains that growers’ profits depend on both market prices and the amount of fruit they can produce. Last year, prices were high but yields were low. This year, he hopes for both high yields and high market prices.
The first shipment of gold kiwifruit has already left New Zealand for Asia, marking the start of what Bond believes will be a strong season for the industry. He also notes that labor issues have been resolved, with a good number of backpackers coming into the country to work.
Zespri CEO Dan Mathieson is also optimistic. He says that the company has been hosting major retailers in New Zealand and that there is strong demand for their fruit. With increased volumes, Zespri is looking forward to meeting that demand. The company expects to export around 190 million trays of kiwifruit this season.
However, Mathieson also notes potential challenges, including difficult market conditions and unfavorable exchange rates with the Japanese yen. This could particularly impact Organic, Sweet Green, and RubyRed kiwifruits, which are sold mostly in Japan.
