As the industry body representing you, New Zealand's summerfruit growers, we know how deeply connected you are to the land and vital natural resources – the soil, water, climate – that sustain your livelihoods and allow you to produce the quality fruit the industry has built its reputation on. You understand, perhaps more acutely than most, the importance of being responsible custodians of these resources.
The conversation around environmental sustainability and the sustainable use of natural resources is intensifying across the country. It's clear that, as an industry, we must continue to evolve and look at ways we can do more with less from a natural resource perspective. This isn't just about meeting future expectations: it's about ensuring the long-term viability and resilience of our growing businesses and the wider summerfruit sector.
However, while embracing this shift is essential, the pathway forward must be practical, achievable, and developed in genuine partnership with those who work the land every day – you, our growers. This is where Summerfruit NZ, working closely with HortNZ and other product groups, is focusing significant energy: advocating strongly for sensible regulatory reform that acknowledges the unique challenges and realities of horticulture.
We believe firmly in our growers' right to farm responsibly, and our advocacy is centred on ensuring regulators engage with the industry to identify reasonable pathways for transitioning away from historic practices. This isn't about resisting change: it's about ensuring the changes required are technically feasible, economically viable, and don't undermine the significant value our industry provides to local communities and the national economy. Put simply, we are advocating for solutions that balance the critical need for environmental health with the equally critical need to enable successful, productive farming operations.
Otago district plan
This advocacy takes many forms. Recently, Summerfruit NZ had the opportunity to engage directly with the Otago District Council as it begins reviewing the rural chapters of its district plan. Attending a planning workshop allowed us to ensure the unique value of horticulture to the local community – including jobs, economic activity, and vibrant landscapes – is clearly acknowledged alongside issues like reverse sensitivity. We also highlighted the critical importance of enabling sensible seasonal labour solutions within the planning framework.
I want to extend sincere thanks to the growers who gave up their valuable time to help represent the industry at this workshop: your practical insights are invaluable. We remain committed to supporting the industry in this crucial planning space.
Hawke’s Bay water
A significant area of focus currently is the complex water consenting landscape in Hawke's Bay, particularly concerning the TANK plan review and the processing of consents under the actual and reasonable framework. Summerfruit NZ is actively supporting the establishment and efforts of the Heretaunga Sustainable Water (HSW) group. We have also written to Ministers to support the group’s position that the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council should pause processing new water consents under the actual and reasonable framework until there is clarity and a binding commitment from the council. Specifically, HSW is calling for an immediate halt to compulsory processing of TANK water consents until the Environment Court’s process concludes, a legislative solution extends existing permits, or the existing RMA is replaced with new legislation. This suspension is essential to provide growers with the certainty and time needed to understand requirements and plan effectively.
While it is pleasing to note that HBRC have offered to pause processing consents until after the environment court decision is issued – a positive step born from strong industry representation – there is still a considerable amount of work that needs to be done by consent applicants over the next 12-18 months, regardless of the pause. We encourage all Hawke's Bay water users to engage with Heretaunga Sustainable Water. They are working hard to support members through this complex process and will be a vital resource in navigating the path ahead – you can register to join HSW via the following link.
This work, whether involving Otago planning or Hawke's Bay water, is fundamentally about ensuring we can continue to farm responsibly, contribute positively to our communities, and thrive in a changing environment. Our advocacy is driven by your concerns, aiming for sensible outcomes that respect both the land and the needs of our growing businesses. We will continue to champion your right to farm and work towards a future where environmental stewardship and a prosperous summerfruit industry go hand in hand.