Jens Liesebach, KGI Lower North Island Representative
The first strong rays of sunshine indicate that Spring is just around the corner. Sprays for improved bud break have been applied to early blocks and the frost fighting system is getting a service before being used soon. Gold kiwifruit winter pruning in Hawke’s Bay will likely continue well into September, which will bring further challenges.
NZKGI has been working hard to represent the interests of kiwifruit growers within the kiwifruit industry and the wider community. Having a strong, united organisation helps us to represent ourselves in Wellington and at council levels, as there is increased demand for regulatory change in areas such as the RSE scheme, agrichemicals and fresh water. To help retain our current performance, the Board has proposed that the levy be increased from 1 cent per tray to 1.1 cent per tray at the upcoming AGM in August. Further information on this subject can be obtained from NZKGI’s annual report 2021, which was sent to every grower at the beginning of this month.
With the growth of Gold 3 volumes year on year, the amount of count size 39 increases to a level above marketing requirements. Furthermore, the dry matter content of this size profile can be lacking compared to larger fruit and can in some cases hinder good decision making during harvest. Zespri is suggesting limiting the supply of Gold 3 count 39s by making them non-standard supply. Please see the discussion paper here and contact me if you have any feedback.
Please keep Wednesday, 18 August 2021 free for the NZKGI AGM which will be preceded by the KVH AGM at 9am and will be followed by the Zespri AGM at 1.00pm at the Trustpower Arena, 81 Truman Lane, Mount Maunganui.
Zespri Roadshow in the Hawkes Bay will be held on 26 August at 8:30am at the Crown Hotel, Napier.
I look forward to seeing you there.
