Horticulture new zealand
Horticulture New Zealand is the industry association that represents the interests of the horticulture sector in New Zealand. The organization was established in 1922 and is headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand.
Horticulture New Zealand's mission is to "grow a thriving horticulture industry that benefits New Zealanders and the environment." The organization achieves this by:
- Advocating for the interests of the horticulture industry: Horticulture New Zealand works with government, industry, and other stakeholders to promote the interests of the horticulture industry and ensure that the sector's needs are taken into account in policy and decision-making.
- Providing industry support and services: The organization offers a range of services and support to its members, including market research, technical advice, and training and development programs.
- Promoting the benefits of horticulture: Horticulture New Zealand promotes the benefits of horticulture to the wider public, including the importance of the sector to the New Zealand economy, the environment, and food security.
- Developing and implementing industry initiatives: The organization develops and implements initiatives to improve the sustainability and competitiveness of the horticulture industry, such as the development of new technologies and practices.
Some of the key areas that Horticulture New Zealand focuses on include:
- Market access and trade: The organization works to improve market access for New Zealand horticultural products and to increase trade with other countries.
- Biosecurity: Horticulture New Zealand works to protect the sector from biosecurity risks and to ensure that the industry is prepared to respond to any biosecurity incidents.
- Sustainability: The organization promotes sustainable practices in the horticulture industry, including the use of integrated pest management, organic farming, and renewable energy.
- Research and development: Horticulture New Zealand invests in research and development to improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the horticulture industry.
- Industry development: The organization works to develop the skills and capabilities of the horticulture industry, including through training and development programs for growers and other industry professionals.
Some of the key horticultural crops grown in New Zealand include:
- Kiwifruit
- Avocados
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
- Apples and pears
- Grapes (for wine and table grapes)
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini and other summer squash
- Pumpkins and other winter squash
- Lettuce and other leafy greens
Horticulture New Zealand has a number of initiatives and programs in place to support the growth and development of the horticulture industry in New Zealand. These include:
- The New Zealand Horticulture Industry Development Fund: This fund provides financial support to horticulture industry projects and initiatives that promote the growth and development of the sector.
- The Horticulture Industry Development Program: This program provides training and development opportunities for horticulture industry professionals, including growers, packers, and other industry stakeholders.
- The Biosecurity and Trade Program: This program works to improve biosecurity and trade practices in the horticulture industry, including through the development of new technologies and practices.
- The Sustainability Program: This program promotes sustainable practices in the horticulture industry, including the use of integrated pest management, organic farming, and renewable energy.
Overall, Horticulture New Zealand plays an important role in promoting the growth and development of the horticulture industry in New Zealand, and in ensuring that the sector is sustainable, competitive, and beneficial to New Zealanders and the environment.