New Zealand domestic vegetable production: the growing story - 2017 hortnz.co.nz
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New Zealand domestic
vegetable production:
the growing story
2017
hortnz.co.nz
Horticulture New Zealand Foreword
Horticulture New Zealand’s vision We believe it is time to take stock. There want our food and exports are vital to
is ‘healthy food for all forever.’ Now, is an assumption that New Zealand the growing economy, but are we in
more than ever, people are seeking is a land of plenty and we will always danger of leaving New Zealanders with
out healthy food and lifestyles. have enough locally-grown food to not enough locally grown food to eat?
Indications from the health sector feed our population, supplemented by
This report is the first step in taking
are that diet is linked to long-term imported food where there is demand.
stock of what we need to continue
health outcomes. The ideal diet But things are changing, fast. We need
to grow the vegetables that form
includes plenty of fresh fruit to look closely at our domestic food
the staple base of healthy New
and vegetables. supply and be sure that town, city and
Zealanders’ diets. It is part of a
regional planning decisions are seen in
In addition to seeking out healthy body of evidence Horticulture
the context of impacting the whole of
food, people worldwide are making New Zealand is compiling to
New Zealand’s food supply.
purchasing decisions based on values. persuade decision-makers across
These values might include wanting The solution is not as simple as all levels of government that we
to know where the food comes from, picking up and moving growing need a domestic food security policy.
and that it is sustainably and ethically operations somewhere else, or
Before more houses are placed on
produced. Growers and food retailers moving growing indoors and vertical.
fertile and unique growing land and
need to provide shoppers with Horticulture started on the outskirts
more decisions are made about
this information. of towns and cities to ensure fresh
water, we want there to be a pause for
produce could get to market quickly,
In parallel, there is a perfect storm breath and some big picture planning.
without spoiling. Each growing area
brewing for New Zealand’s supply is an ecosystem that has developed
of healthy food. Prime fruit and over generations and supports local,
vegetable growing land is being regional and the wider New Zealand
squeezed by rapid growth in towns economy in many ways, including
and cities and high demand for new employment.
housing. Emotional battles over water
have the potential to leave growers Growers are definitely looking at
high and dry. Changes in weather how they can do more with less. The
patterns across regions and extreme population they feed is growing, but Julian Raine
unseasonal weather events such access to land and water is challenging. President, Horticulture NZ
Our growing areas and the businesses
as rain, hail, snow, frost or drought
that grow vegetables in New Zealand
becoming more frequent and
have consolidated meaning the need
damaging, are impacting the supply
to protect them for the future is more
of fresh, healthy food. When supply
important than ever.
is short and demand high, prices are
subject to wide variations. This can Science and technology is driving
potentially put healthy food out of change and helping meet consumer Mike Chapman
reach for some people. demands. People all over the world Chief Executive, Horticulture NZ
KPMG Foreword
On a global scale, New Zealand’s Delivering nutritious produce that is
agri-food sector is made up of a affordable by all New Zealanders is
plethora of niche, boutique and a key enabler to encourage a wider
artisan businesses. Greater value health discussion around healthy
can be generated by joining the diets and food options.
dots between the producers and
The industry is working collaboratively
the communities from which our
to lead science and technology
products originate and those that
to secure and maintain market
ultimately experience the product.
leading positions.
In a world of almost limitless choices
Connecting the passion of the
for premium consumers, something
producer, and their desire to create
being facilitated by rapidly evolving
amazing products in the way that is
technologies, New Zealand’s vegetable
best for their land, family, community
and fruit producers need to create
and country, to the consumer will
experiences that fully engage with
differentiate a product and help
their consumers. Keeping domestic
secure a premium. This is ultimately
consumers enthusiastic and
connecting farmers with their reason
passionate about our products, will
for being. Most forget to acknowledge
help our nation to flourish not only as
our farmers as the providers of our
a nation, but on the global stage.
food and our health and, ultimately,
Capturing value relies on telling the as those who support society to
stories that underlie the products function effectively.
we grow. These stories must be
substantive and leverage all aspects
of the products we grow. The
provenance story of our products is a
key differentiator for both domestic
and international consumers, with
traceability back to the grower a
fundamentally important attribute.
Ian Proudfoot
As technology evolves, New
KPMG Global Head of Agribusiness
Zealand has an opportunity to
add value to our natural products
through securing our reputation
as a sustainable and ethical nation.
4 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND
Executive
Summary
New Zealand horticulture is big The make-up of New Zealand’s This report looks at domestic
business, and growing fast. With population is changing, with vegetable supply, particularly of
an industry value of $5.6 billion city dwellers no longer having what would be considered staple
(excluding wine), we export 60 connections with rural communities vegetables, to examine all the factors
percent of what we grow, that that they once might have had. that go into getting them from
is, $3.4 billion in value to 124 There is not the understanding of the field to the plate. It looks at the
countries. Exports increased by 40 what goes into getting fresh food challenges to supply, through to
percent from June 2014 to 2016. onto their plates, but there are a lot of what is driving demand and price.
The 5,500 commercial fruit and demands for convenient packaging Most of the vegetables grown in New
vegetable growers employ about and year-round availability at an Zealand are eaten here, which is why
60,000 people and the demand for affordable price. they make a strong study group.
workers across the skill spectrum is
New Zealand growers are early Information and evidence is required
outstripping supply.
adopters of science and technology to enable good decisions about
Such growth doesn’t come without to match changes in consumer New Zealand’s domestic food supply
some growing pains. While there has demands. There has been going forward.
been a strong focus on more exports, considerable investment in all aspects
Security of supply is essential. We
with primary production still being of production and some of our
need to look at the full picture of
New Zealand’s big economic driver, packhouses are driving efficiencies
what is grown where and when;
what is happening to our domestic and improving quality with cutting-
where it goes and who it feeds; what
food supply? edge technology and innovative
the future ‘disruptors’ to the supply
working practices.
Trends indicate a strong desire chain will be – beyond the standard
by consumers to buy fruit and We have the ideal climate and soils, variables growers have managed
vegetables that are locally grown, and efficient people and systems, and for decades; the importance of
to understand what has gone into ideal location with proximity to balancing housing and water
producing their food. While some will key markets. supply with food supply; what role
always buy on price, a section of the vegetables play in a healthy nation;
So what is missing?
population seek more information what our import needs might be
before they buy. Domestic supply is not being viewed should we lose domestic supply;
as a national system, with identified and how we might feed a
A Consumer New Zealand survey in
strengths and weaknesses, to give growing population.
early 2017 showed that 71 percent of
New Zealanders continued access to
New Zealanders want to know where This report doesn’t answer all the
all the fresh fruit and vegetables they
their fruit and vegetables come from questions. It provides a snapshot of
need in the future. Local, district and
and 70 percent also want to buy domestic vegetable production to
regional decision-making doesn’t
New Zealand-grown. Consumers start the conversation about food
look beyond its borders. While this
want mandatory Country of Origin security in New Zealand.
is appropriate in the context of their
Labelling (CoOL) for fresh fruit and
planning, no consideration is given
vegetables, something New Zealand
to national food supply when land
lags behind other countries on – it is
is zoned for housing, or water is
only voluntary here and not law.
allocated. A decision made in Hawke’s
Off shore, our food commands a Bay for example, may impact on food
premium because it is known to be supply to the whole South Island.
safe, high-quality and healthy. There
Assumptions are made without
is a lot of talk about selling the New
substance, about the footprint of
Zealand story, yet we don’t even
horticulture production. Growers have
label our own fruit and vegetables in
been busy working sustainably and
our own country. Tourists who have
improving environmental outcomes
bought into the clean and green
without telling the world about it.
image and travelled all the way here,
They need to better engage with
struggle to get a New Zealand
their communities so there can be
food experience.
broader understanding of seasonal
food supply and greater trust in its
provenance.
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 5
BROCCOLI & CAULIFLOWER
49,000
Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand
$6.36 / $4.02
Average retail price per kg of fresh
(Broccoli / Cauliflower) in 2016
Broccoli contains vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K.
Cauliflower contains vitamin C, folates,
and pyridoxine.
To give an example of the New KUMARA
Zealand domestic food story, we
have focused on key vegetables
22,000
Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand
that are staples of the Kiwi diet:
$4.22
Broccoli & Cauliflower Average retail price per kg of fresh
Kumara in 2016
Carrots & Parsnips Contains vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene),
pantothenic acid pyridoxine (Vitamin B6).
Cabbage
Kumara
Lettuce
Onions
Potatoes ONIONS
Tomatoes 211,510
Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand
$2.26
Average retail price per kg of fresh
Onions in 2016
Contains vitamin C, pyridoxine and
Sources:
Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf
magnesium.
Statistics New Zealand Average Food Prices 2006-2017
www.vegetables.co.nz/health/vegetable-nutrition/ www.nutritionfoundation.org.nz/nutrition-facts/
www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/vegetables-and-fruits/
www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/wp-content/uploads/UserFiles/Images/DiseasePreventionPotential.pdf
www.medicalnewstoday.com – Health Media UK Ltd
6 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND
CARROTS & PARSNIPS CABBAGE
159,000 56,000
Tonnes produced Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand in 2016 in New Zealand
$2.26 / $5.43 $2.12
Average retail price per kg of fresh Average retail price per kg of fresh
(Carrots / Parsnips) in 2016 Cabbage in 2016
Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K. Contains vitamin C, vitamin K, folates.
10
LETTUCE
8,400
Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand
$4.98
Key vegetables Average retail price per kg of fresh
Lettuce in 2016
that are staples Contains vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C.
of the Kiwi diet
POTATOES TOMATOES
525,000 102,900
Tonnes produced Tonnes produced
in 2016 in New Zealand in 2016 in New Zealand
$1.83 $5.97
Average retail price per kg of fresh Average retail price per kg of fresh
Potatoes in 2016 Tomatoes in 2016
Contains vitamin B complex, vitamin C Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K.
and high in fibre.
New Zealanders eat most of the vegetables grown here.
Some parts of our country grow and harvest all year-round.
The value of the domestic vegetable supply is $1.26 billion,
and exports currently sit at $615 million. While exports
are growing, and new markets are being explored, most
vegetables will continue to be grown for domestic supply.
Kumara has increasingly gained popularity in the New
Zealand diet. However, the unreliability of New Zealand’s
weather has impacted on supply, particularly in 2017. Given
that supply has not been able to keep up with demand, this
has resulted in higher prices for locally grown kumara and has
opened the door for kumara imports.
New Zealand is a leading producer of onions.
Excellent soil types and climate conditions are suited to
growing quality onions. Of the nation’s fresh vegetable
exports, onions are the star. New Zealand serves as a counter
season to the Northern Hemisphere, which provides us with
export market opportunities.
Production
New Zealanders love potatoes.
Potatoes are New Zealand’s
largest crop in terms of
production hectares and
volumes produced.
They are a high-yielding crop.
They require less water than
comparable crops, and they
adapt to growing in a range of
conditions.
They are one of the few crops
grown outside that can be
produced in most regions of
New Zealand and harvested all
year round.
They contribute significantly
to the New Zealand diet;
by combining nutritional
value with low cost due to
high production, ensuring
accessibility to the population.
8 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND
In 2016...
1,133,800
TONNES
PRODUCED IN NZ
(OF THE 10 KEY VEGETABLES)
Tomatoes Potatoes*
What we
do with our 96% 94%
New Zealand NZ consumed NZ consumed
or processed or processed
production
(Estimated figures)
4% 6%
Exported Exported
Cabbage Onions Carrots
97% 10% 91%
NZ consumed NZ consumed NZ consumed
or processed or processed or processed
3% 90% 9%
Exported Exported Exported
Kumara Lettuce Broccoli &
Cauliflower
99% 99% 99%
NZ consumed NZ consumed NZ consumed
or processed or processed or processed
1% 1% 1%
Exported Exported Exported
*42% of total sales revenue for potatoes is from processed potato exports
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Household Economic Survey 2016 Expenditure tables | Statistics New Zealand Overseas Trade Exports - Merchandise Trade 2016
Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf | Consumer NZ and Horticulture NZ Consumer Survey, February 2017 | Potatoes New Zealand
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 9
Regions
The location of where vegetables Broccoli and cauliflower production Depending on their climate, New
are grown in New Zealand has is mostly in New Zealand’s northern Zealand’s vegetable-growing regions
changed significantly over the years. and mid-regions, with warmer supply markets at different times
This is due to a variety of factors, climate conditions allowing year- of the year. For instance, Pukekohe
round production. Production is also supplies the market with Christmas
including the increasing ability to
impacted by extreme weather events, new potatoes, while Oamaru is
chill and transport food, as well as
which can create large peaks in pricing. famous for Jersey Benne potatoes
developments in packaging and that are harvested around November.
Similarly, cabbage can be planted and
processing to suit market demand. harvested anytime during the year, During winter, there are times when
leading to relatively stable pricing year- Southland is the only region supplying
While the majority of vegetables
round (subject to weather conditions). the domestic market with carrots.
were grown near main centres 40-
50 years ago, there is now more of Almost all (93 percent) of tomato Understanding domestic food supply
a reliance on large food production supply originates from the North Island, - and potential risks to this supply in
where tomatoes are mostly grown the long-term - is one of the purposes
hubs - such as Pukekohe, the
indoors. Accordingly, prices increase of this document. Extreme weather
Horowhenua and Canterbury -
events can be mitigated against if
to feed New Zealand’s various during the winter due to increased cost
there is supply coming from other
population bases. of heating glass houses.
New Zealand regions that have not
Lettuce is both an indoor and outdoor been affected. One example of this is
Below is an outline of where some
crop in New Zealand. It is not an export the rural suburb of Outram, in Otago.
of the main staple vegetables
crop due to its short shelf life. Like Formerly a large market garden and
(for New Zealand consumption) tomatoes, lettuce is more expensive orchard area supplying the city of
are grown. during winter months due to heating Dunedin, there are now only a few
costs for indoor production and smaller market gardens remaining.
the length of time it takes to grow Most of the produce for Dunedin now
Potatoes are grown throughout comes from outside the immediate
outdoors.
the country; with the main growing area. Market gardening in this area has
regions being Auckland, Waikato, Production of onions is fairly evenly now made way for lifestyle blocks and
Manawatu/Wanganui and Canterbury. split between the growing regions of pasture.
Crops are grown all year around, and New Zealand, with the predominant
potatoes keep well in cool storage onion-growing regions being Auckland, Growing vegetables for commercial
which contributes to the low and Waikato, Canterbury and Hawke’s supply requires the right soils and
stable price throughout the year. It is Bay. Onions have the largest export microclimates. While technology and
worth noting that two-thirds of New production of New Zealand vegetables. centralised distribution have made it
Zealand’s potato production goes into easier to transport vegetables from A to
Approximately half of the carrot and B, it is important that we don’t ‘put all
processing.
parsnip production is in Canterbury, our veges in one basket’. The aim is to
Due to Northland’s warm climate, followed by Manawatu/Wanganui have a sustainable, year-round supply
97 percent of kumara is grown in and Southland. Southland’s unique of produce for New Zealand. This will
the region. Kumara production is growing conditions and winter only be possible if the different growing
highly impacted by extreme weather chill temperatures produces sweet regions work in conjunction to ensure
events, so any severe weather events in parsnips and carrots. Another famed that seasonality and other variables,
Northland will have an impact on the carrot-growing region, Ohakune, also such as diseases and weather, do not
country’s supply. experiences winter chilling. drastically interrupt that supply.
10 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDMain growing regions by volume for the 10 key vegetables (2014)
NORTHLAND, P: 171,400 (4%)
97% of Kumara WAIKATO, P: 449,200 (10%)
2% of Lettuce 32% of Onions
28% of Tomatoes
19% of Potatoes
AUCKLAND, P: 1,614,400 (35%)
39% of Tomatoes BAY OF PLENTY, P: 293,500 (6%)
33% of Cabbage 14% of Lettuce
32% of Lettuce 1% of Cabbage
25% of Broccoli & cauliflower
19% of Potatoes
HAWKES BAY, P: 161,500 (3%)
MANAWATU-WANGANUI, P: 236,900 (5%)
16% of Onions
22% of Broccoli & cauliflower
4% of Carrots & parsnips
20% of Cabbage
3% of Potatoes
15% of Carrots & parsnips
TASMAN, P: 50,200 (1%) WELLINGTON, P: 504,800 (11%)
6% of Lettuce 1% of Broccoli & cauliflower
2% of Broccoli & cauliflower 1% of Lettuce
1% of Onions
CANTERBURY, P: 599,900 (13%)
47% of Carrots & parsnips
46% of Potatoes
16% of Lettuce
OTAGO, P: 219,200 (5%)
P = Population in 2016
6% of Broccoli & cauliflower
6% of Cabbage Over 1,000,000
SOUTHLAND*, P: 98,000 (2%) 2% of Lettuce 500,000 - 1,000,000
15% of Carrots
200,000 - 500,000
2% of Potatoes
100,000 - 200,000
Under 100,000
Note, only showing main growing areas.
*Percentages of Southland figures represents planted hectares for these vegetables
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Agricultural Production Survey 2014 Indoor Outdoor Vegetables by Region | Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf | www.podgardening.co.nz
www.handymanmagazine.co.nz/how-grow-onions | www.gardengrow.co.nz | Statistics New Zealand Estimated Resident Population for Regional Council Areas 2016From the grower Kylie Faulkner Terry Olsen Allen Lim Sutherland Produce Ltd - Olsen Partnership - Manawatu Jade Garden Produce – Pukekohe “The vegetable industry in New Canterbury “For our business, access to irrigation Zealand is taken for granted. All “Growing vegetables on a large isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential. For the things we are used to such scale all year round, like we do in leafy vegetable crops, especially as a continuous supply of safe, Canterbury, can be challenging. in summer, it really is a case of no affordable, wholesome vegetables The produce is delicate and water, no crop. Water is critical to are under increasing threat. susceptible to weather events. Parts maintaining the consistent volumes It is everyone’s responsibility to of Canterbury have top quality soils and quality of our crops needed to ensure that the industry can and mild climatic conditions that supply our supermarket customers continue to flourish.” are vital, but increasingly hard to almost every single day of the year. come by. Access to this type of land Some of our products are eaten needs to be protected to uncooked so microbiological quality ensure fresh affordable food.” of the water applied to them is also very important.” 12 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND
Brent Wilcox Brent Lamb Bharat Jivan
A.S.Wilcox and Sons Ltd – Pypers Produce Ltd - Southland Jivan Produce Limited -
Pukekohe “Southland is a wonderful place but Pukekohe
“Customers today want year-round is a very hard place to grow produce “Urban encroachment on valuable
continuity of supply, so this is a in as we can get four seasons in one food growing soils is threatening
business necessity for us. To keep day. Due to the climate we have the sustainability of growers in the
up this supply, we must have access to organise our planting and staff Pukekohe region. Pukekohe’s frost
to land to grow on a regional and around the weather. Sometimes this free slopes which for years grew the
seasonal spread, so if one region is can mean a very small margin to country’s first new season potatoes
impacted for some reason we can plant to have produce ready in time are now covered in bricks and
supply from another region.” for the new season.” mortar. A lot has been lost but it’s
not too late to protect this valuable
resource for future generations.”
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 13Average
2016 - 2017
Average weather
conditions across
New Zealand
Climate
Weather is one of the variables To some degree, the spread of
of food production. While some crops across New Zealand can Average retail price
events may be considered mitigate extreme weather impacts August 2016 -
on vegetable supply. With localised
August 2017
“business as usual”, growers have
faced extreme weather in the weather events, if one area is hit by
past couple of years. These more bad weather, another region can meet
extreme floods and droughts affect supply. However there can be years
supply – and consequently, pricing – where all production areas are hit by
of some of the staple vegetables. extreme weather at the same time.
Broccoli has been significantly
affected by weather events. The
Research around climate change
suggests extreme weather events Broccoli
$7.62 per kg
March/April 2017 North Island may become more frequent, and
flooding had a direct effect on crop more extreme. To mitigate this,
supply. With about 50 percent promoting greater land utilisation for
of supply grown in the North horticulture and protecting existing
Island, this reduced supply for the high-production areas will ensure food
entire country and raised prices
significantly from March 2017
security and sustainability.
. Carrots
$2.58 per kg
to May 2017.
Potatoes and carrots are seemingly
less sensitive to weather extremities.
Large production volumes, spread
across the country, reduces the
$1.93
risk that supply of these crops will
be impacted by extreme weather per kg
conditions. However, long periods of Potatoes
wet weather can prevent harvesting.
14 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDThe following weather events had a strong
impact on the growth and supply of vegetables
(predominantly broccoli) causing a price
difference shortly after each event.
August January March April May
2016 2017 2017 2017 2017
North NZ, North Middle NZ,
Middle / South Middle / South Cyclone Debbie,
Tasman Tempest, Cyclone Donna,
of NZ, heavy of NZ, torrential a month of rain
Auckland’s torrential down-
snow fall with downpours in 24 hours,
wettest March pours with slips
rain warnings with strong winds extreme floods
in 58 years and flooding
Price one month Price one month Price one month Price one month Price one month
after the weather after the weather after the weather after the weather after the weather
event: event: event: event: event:
ABOVE AVERAGE ABOVE AVERAGE ABOVE AVERAGE
$7.60 per kg $5.67 per kg $9.41 per kg $10.56 per kg $9.25 per kg
ABOVE AVERAGE
$2.01 per kg $3.53 per kg $2.53 per kg $2.29 per kg $2.30 per kg
ABOVE AVERAGE ABOVE AVERAGE ABOVE AVERAGE
$1.69 per kg $2.07 per kg $1.86 per kg $2.03 per kg $1.96 per kg
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Average Food Prices 2006-2017 | www.nzherald.co.nz/weather-home | www.stuff.co.nz/national/weather
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 15Water
Water is a vital resource to help Water is used throughout the Irrigation schemes such as the
New Zealand secure its place as horticultural supply chain; from Waimea Community Dam, which is
a world-leading food producer, growing the plants, to frost fighting proposed in the Tasman region, will
as well as maintain a year-round (e.g. some fruits), and washing provide growers with a continuous
production base for domestic and processing for market. To and reliable water source year-
consumption (including the service these activities, the industry round. By securing reliability of
staple vegetables we have looked requires sufficient quantity of water water supply, such schemes provide
at in this report). The reliability of supply, particularly in summer. the potential – and confidence
water supply for vegetable crops For crops that are grown above – to grow New Zealand’s wider
during growth periods is very ground – such as lettuce, broccoli, horticultural production.
important to ensure quality as cauliflower and cabbage – the
Diversification of land offers a buffer
well as yield. During dry periods, quality of water is also critical in
against unpredictable markets,
access to water is essential to terms of food safety.
in other sectors such as dairy or
sustaining crops and maintaining
The key constraints to growth livestock production, which in turn
quality and quantity of supply
in horticultural production are benefits the rural community and
required by the market.
access to land and water. Of the the economy.
5.5 percent of land appropriate
As increasing pressure is placed At the other end of the scale,
for vegetable production in New
on water resources in New some regions are facing a future of
Zealand, roughly 1/10th has been
Zealand, the question of ensuring potential water scarcity. Pukekohe
subdivided for lifestyle blocks
reliability of supply becomes more is a key region for vegetable
in the past 15 years. Access to
pronounced. We face the twin production, which sources its
water and land is becoming a
demands of ensuring that we irrigation needs from ground water
key constraint to growth, due to a
can feed our growing population and from the Waikato River. There
number of factors. These include
domestically, while maintaining our is competition for water from the
competition for versatile land for
valuable exports. river from municipal and industrial
housing, the availability of highly-
reliable water sources, and water
quality constraints.
16 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDusers, and with increasing pressure
on the water resource, the ability
for growers to maintain a reliable
supply of water for irrigation and
processing can be compromised.
This, along with pressure from
urbanisation, means that the
ability for the region to grow its
horticultural area is severely limited.
At this stage, under the Resource
Management Act, water is allocated
on a first-in-first-served basis.
This means that water for food
production is competing with
all other uses of water; and is
not elevated in status to ensure
that domestic food supply is
maintained. Future allocation of
water in fully allocated catchments
may have to assess water use on a
value-based framework, to ensure
that New Zealanders can be
sustainably ‘fed and watered’ as a
priority above other uses.
Sources: The Water Footprint of Agriculture Products in New Zealand, The Impact of Primary Production on Water
Resources, Massey University, 2013 | Ministry for the Environment, Stats NZ, and data providers, licensed
by the Ministry for the Environment and Stats NZ for re-use under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0
New Zealand licence Resource Management Act, Ministry for the Environment, 1991
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 17Distribution
When it comes to New Zealand’s Consumer behaviour and
domestic market, distribution preferences are also influencing Estimated percentage of
channels have evolved over time. Due new, dynamic distribution channels. distribution based on annual
to innovations in technology, these My Food Bag is an example of household expenditure of
channels have become more efficient meeting consumer preferences for fresh produce:
and streamlined. instant access to convenient food,
delivered to the doorstep. With
While the ability to transport chilled
ingredients measured to fit exactly
fruit and vegetables has reduced
to a desired recipe, food wastage is
reliance on locally-grown produce,
virtually eliminated. The ingredients
it also creates risk if distribution
provided are also locally grown
channels are unexpectedly altered.
and fresh.
For example, a blocked highway
following an earthquake could restrict In 2016, an estimated $330 million
access between fruit and vegetable was spent on processed vegetables
hubs and their markets. in New Zealand households.
Another emerging concern in our This diagram (to the far right) is
food system is tracking the country of a macro-level view of the food 43% Ready-to-eat food
origin. New Zealand has started down ecosystem. Other channels not
the path of implementing Country considered include the likes of food
of Original Labelling; a move which for hospitals, schools, prisons, family
is viewed as adding value to our food home and farm composting, and
system. The country’s reputation farmers markets. While we recognise
29% Restaurant meals
for high-quality produce, coupled the future’s evolving supply chain
with the consumer preference to (with the likes of My Food Bag), for the
‘eat locally’, supports the strategy to purpose of this report, we are focusing
origin-label our food. on the typical consumer journey for
whole fruits and vegetables.
28% Retail
18 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDBelow is an example of what a potential fruit and vegetable supply chain in
New Zealand can look like covering multiple channels:
OUR PEOPLE
RETAIL FOOD SERVICE ONLINE
(Supermarkets) (Restaurants) (Home & Family)
IMPORTS WASTE
Waste is contributed
from every point
of the value chain
Fresh Processed
EXPORTS WHOLESALE PROCESSORS
GROWERS
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Agricultural Production Survey 2014 Indoor Outdoor Vegetables by Region | Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.
co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf | Statistics New Zealand Household Economic Survey 2016 Expenditure tables | Euromonitor International November
2016 Report – Processed Fruit and Vegetables in New Zealand HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 19Consumption
Consistency of price and quality In order for New Zealanders to
are key influencers for New
New Zealand
meet their recommended dietary
Zealanders to purchase and requirements, and promote good
eats 1,800
consume specific vegetables. health, it is important to protect
and strengthen our local supply
From the 10 vegetables analysed,
tonnes of fruit
to ensure seasonal vegetables are
potatoes are by far the most highly-
affordable for all.
consumed vegetable, at nearly 23 kgs
per year per person. Kumara is viewed
as a similar product, however we only
and vegetables
consume approximately 3.66 kgs
per year per person. The significant per day
difference in consumption between
these two very similar vegetables (Based on recommended
is predominantly due to difference servings of fruit and vegetables
in price – driven by potatoes year- per day and 2016 volumes)
round availability and the spread
of growing regions. Compared to
kumara, potatoes are a lower cost
option. This is reflected in the wider
picture, with New Zealand’s vegetable
consumption being largely governed
by price and availability.
20 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDIn 2016, each New Zealander consumed
approximately the following portions
of these fresh vegetables:
Tomatoes Broccoli & Cauliflower Cabbage Carrots & Parsnips
7.56kgs 4.43kgs 4.37kgs 7.88kgs
11% 3%
6%
7%
12%
38%
5%
7%
12%
Potatoes Onions Lettuce Kumara
22.90kgs 7.44kgs 5.06kgs 3.66kgs
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Household Economic Survey 2016 Expenditure tables | Ministry of Primary Industries | Horticulture New Zealand Annual Report 2017 | Statistics New Zealand 2013 Census
Statistics New Zealand Average Food Prices 2006-2017 | Statistics New Zealand NZIER population quarterly predictions – June 2017
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 21There has been a constant national
increase in obesity in New Zealand
over the last 10 years.
Human health
In New Zealand, almost one-third of 2017 showed that 70 percent of those Science continues to explore the
adults are obese, with a further 35 surveyed wanted to buy New Zealand wellness and health-promoting
percent being overweight. grown fresh fruit and vegetables. Our compounds within vegetables, and
strong connection to our food creates identify the best way to consume them.
One in nine children are obese, with a trust in our growers, and consumers
further 21 percent being overweight. Education campaigns can help drive
are more likely to eat food they know
consumption choices. 5 + A Day is a
Globally, eighty percent of deaths are the provenance of.
charitable trust set up to encourage
caused by chronic health conditions Due to high concentrations of vitamins New Zealanders to eat five or more
that are largely preventable. Of the and minerals, diets high in fruits and servings of colourful, fresh fruit and
80 percent, six percent are diabetic, vegetables are recommended for vegetables every day. Its purpose is
five percent have heart disease, and their health-promoting properties. not only to encourage consumption
31 percent are obese – all of which are
The World Health Organisation (WHO) patterns; but also to help people
conditions that can be addressed via
has identified vegetables as playing understand the benefits of eating a diet
good nutrition.
a vital role in providing a nutritious rich in fruit and vegetables, and how
Low fruit and vegetable intake is a risk diet, contributing to health outcomes this contributes to health.
factor for global mortality. Globally, and lessening the burden of chronic
disease in Western societies. A recent survey by the 5 + A Day
approximately 1.7 million (2.8 percent) of
deaths worldwide are attributed to low Charitable Trust found that New
New Zealand has high consumption Zealanders are rated among the
fruit and vegetable consumption.
rates of broccoli, potatoes and carrots; highest consumers of fruit and
As a nation, New Zealand has enviable all of which have high levels of vitamin vegetables globally, but that there was
access to year-round fresh fruit and C. Vitamin C helps contribute to still room for improvement.
vegetables. As our population grows, prevention of inflammatory diseases,
increased supply will be required to fighting infections, and the growth of A 2015 joint study between Auckland,
maintain this access to healthy food. If bones, tendons, ligaments and skin. It Otago and Oxford Universities
we cannot supply fresh locally-grown also facilitates the absorption of iron investigated the potential impact of
fruit and vegetables to an increasing from our foods. price subsidies on fruit and vegetables
population, prices will inevitably increase. in New Zealand. It found that a
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables 20 percent subsidy on fruit and
This will both reduce or limit the
also provides necessary vegetables, with the resulting impact
population’s access to healthy food, and
micronutrients that cannot be found on affordability, could prevent or
open the door to increased imports.
in staple grains, meat or dairy. postpone around 560 deaths a year.
A Consumer survey released in March
22 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND1.7m deaths 31% obese
Globally, approximately 1.7 million Of those numbers, 6% are diabetic, 5%
(2.8%) of deaths worldwide are have heart disease, 31% are obese; all of
attributed by low fruit and vegetable which are conditions that nutrition, or
consumption. lack of, have a heavy contribution.
World Health Organisation (WHO) global statistics on obesity increase
40%
35%
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
5%
0
2-4 5-9 10-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+
AGE
2006/2007 2013/2014
Sources: Environmental Health Indicators New Zealand, Massey University | Ministry of Health. 2013. New Zealand Health Survey: Annual update of key findings 2012/13. Wellington: Ministry of Health
Statistics New Zealand. Disability Survey: 2013. Hot Off the Press. Wellington: Statistics New Zealand. | Obesity and Overweight fact sheet June 2016, World Health Organization
Boeing, Heiner et al. “Critical Review: Vegetables and Fruit in the Prevention of Chronic Diseases.” European Journal of Nutrition 51.6 (2012): 637–663. PMC. Web. 5 Oct. 2017.
Report on New Zealand Cost-of-Illness Studies on Long-Term Conditions, 2009, Ministry of Health New Zealand | New Zealand Nutrition Foundation, Vitamin Facts
Effects of Health-Related Food Taxes and Subsidies on Mortality from Diet-Related Disease in New Zealand, 2015, University of Auckland, University of Otago and Oxford UniversityPrices
Production and prices for broccoli, carrots and potatoes only.
2012 2014 2016
NZ domestic production: NZ domestic production: NZ domestic production:
687,000TN 609,000TN 632,000TN
Average price per kg: Average price per kg: Average price per kg:
$1.70 $1.93 $2.03
To gain a better understanding of price and production, we have taken three vegetables in focus and mapped domestic annual
production against an annual average weighted retail price per kg. As the production tonnes of broccoli, carrots and potatoes
has decreased, this has had a direct correlation to an increase to the average weighted retail price per kg.
New Zealand’s diverse geography conditions, the ability to produce Protecting the supply of fruits and
leaves the country susceptible to vegetables also changes. When vegetables against varying weather
rapid weather changes. there is a drop in production, and conditions is challenging.
This unpredictability can influence demand is unchanged or increased,
There are specific areas across New
local production, supply and prices start to rise. Demand for fresh
Zealand which are naturally more
ultimately pricing. produce has been driven by shifts
conducive to fruit and vegetable
in consumer preferences to whole
Production of vegetables can be growth. Where there is neighbouring
fresh foods as part of a healthy diet.
affected by weather conditions, land accessible, this represents an
available land, and natural resources. Stable production throughout the year opportunity to replicate production
Inconsistent weather conditions results in more consistency of pricing. in similar conditions – and therefore
(such as floods and droughts), Some vegetables are more prone to reduce the risk of unstable production.
coupled with the effects of climate be impacted by weather changes. For In turn, this results in more stable
change, have an impact on vegetable example, broccoli is more dependent prices and creates greater access to
production. If natural resources are on weather than carrots and potatoes. fresh fruit and vegetables.
altered significantly due to weather
24 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDBroccoli snapshot
Of our 10 vegetables studied in this report,
broccoli has seen the most significant price
increase over the past 24 months.
Strong broccoli production is reliant on
stable weather. This is reflected in events
such as the North Island storms, early in
2017, when there was a spike in broccoli
price shortly after the weather event. This
suggests there is a high variation to price
when there are weather events which
cause a decrease in production, coupled
with the inability to compensate in other
areas and grow more to fill the gap.
Prices reached their lowest point in the
past 24 months during the period of
November/December 2016. The majority of
supply is split between the top and middle
of the North Island; with the lowest price
points coinciding with the peak harvesting
period in the middle of the North Island.
Average Retail Prices per kg over the 24 month period (July 2015 - June 2017)
We looked at three key vegetables - broccoli, carrots and potatoes to understand their pricing trends. Using Statistics
New Zealand data, we have taken the monthly retail price per kg for each vegetable from the 24 months from July 2015
through to June 2017. The average price across all three has increased steadily over the past two years.
The prices of
9.25
carrots and
BROCCOLI
$
6.46 $
4.52 $
6.26 $7.60 $
6.23 $ potatoes have
remained stable
compared to
broccoli which
had a few
fluctuations.
CARROTS 1
$ .98
2
$ .54
2
$ .10
2
$ .01
3
$ .42 2
$ .30 Carrots and
potatoes are
grown across
wider regional
geographies,
POTATOES 1
$ .70
2
$ .11
1
$ .83
1
$ .69
2
$ .25
1
$ .96 which could
help explain
their price
stability.
JULY NOV APR SEP JAN JUNE
2015 2015 2016 2016 2017 2017
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Average Food Prices 2006-2017 | Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 25Imports
This data helps us to better in a fortunate position to have
understand the effect of imports these agreements in place.
To understand how and exports, and how we can look
Our data shows that imports make
to utilise our local production to
imports and exports feed our population. Some fruit
up a very small portion of New
Zealand’s domestic food availability.
will impact local and vegetables that do not grow
in New Zealand will always be Any food that is imported is
fruit and vegetable imported to meet demand. typically in order to fill any
availability, we have New Zealand has successfully
seasonal gaps in availability.
measured the impact concluded Free Trade Agreements Our 10 key vegetables made up only
(FTAs) with 16 World Trade 0.1 percent of total imports in 2016.
of both imports and Organisation members. It is With a focus on fresh local food,
exports on total important to understand that while New Zealanders have a preference
domestic production is preferable to eat locally-grown over imported
domestic production to New Zealanders, our vegetables fruit and vegetables. This contributes
tonnes available. will be replaced by imports if significantly to our economy, and
we cannot sustain local supply. clearly places our growers and
For this reason, New Zealand is producers in a good position.
26 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDIn 2016...
1,200
TONNES
IMPORTED IN TO NZ
(OF THE 10 KEY VEGETABLES)
Location breakdown of where our imported produce in 2016 came from:
(Vegetables - fresh or chilled)
Potatoes (processed)* Carrots Cabbage
70% 71% 73%
Tonga United States United States
30% 29% 27%
China China Australia
Total Tonnes Imported: Total Tonnes Imported: Total Tonnes Imported:
18.5 37.7 11.8
Kumara Onions Lettuce
42% 100% 97%
Tonga United States Australia
51% 3%
Total Tonnes Imported:
555.6
United States
China
Total Tonnes Imported:
7% Tomatoes 122.5
100%
Fiji, India and Vietnam
Total Tonnes Imported:
321.8 Australia
Total Tonnes Imported:
132.2
*Fresh potatoes cannot be imported into New Zealand so this only refers to processed potato products such as crisps/fries
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Overseas Trade Imports – Merchandise Trade 2016 | Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf
www.mfat.govt.nz/en/trade/free-trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements-in-force/ | Potatoes New Zealand
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 27Exports Where do
New Zealand
vegetable
76%
Around the world, New Zealand In 2016 exports*
is regarded as a grower of top
quality fruit and vegetables.
end up?
Fresh Facts recorded that 1,148,316
tonnes of vegetables were grown in (2016 top export
New Zealand in 2016. According to
Statistics New Zealand, 23 percent
of this volume was exported.
of total exported countries by
percentage)
The challenge New Zealand faces Potatoes
is finding the balance between
feeding our domestic population,
while capitalising on the strong
went to Fiji Kumara
prices that international markets
will pay for our fresh products.
The main countries we export
Fiji is a key vegetable export
destination; where tropical weather
55%
vegetables to are our closest to French Polynesia
patterns limit stable supply and local
neighbours, such as Pacific
countries and Australia.
consumption exceeds production.
20%
Given fresh produce has a limited to New Caledonia
shelf life, it is unsurprising that our
key export countries for vegetables
are in close proximity to New Zealand.
12%
to Solomon Islands
Total Tonnes Exported:
12
(Vegetables - fresh or chilled)
28 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDIn 2016...
242,400
TONNES
EXPORTED FROM NZ
(OF THE 10 KEY VEGETABLES)
Broccoli Cabbage Cauliflower Carrots
32% 34% 41% 28%
to Fiji to Fiji to Fiji to Fiji
22% 26% 35% 15%
to French Polynesia to New Caledonia to New Caledonia to Japan
13% 15% 6% 12%
to Samoa to French Polynesia to Samoa to Taiwan
Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported:
28 1,396 50 14,614
Lettuce Onions Tomatoes Potatoes
47% 18% 37% 76%
to Fiji to Indonesia to Japan to Fiji
17% 13% 20% 6%
to Samoa to Belgium to Australia to French Polynesia
10% 11% 14% 6%
to Hong Kong to Germany to Canada to New Caledonia
Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported: Total Tonnes Exported:
47 189,776 3,704 32,773
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Overseas Trade Exports – Merchandise Trade 2016 | Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 29New Zealand
Horticulture is core to providing To maintain our premium position Additionally, the organic market
our nation with locally grown fruit in the global marketplace, the New highlights the power of consumers
and vegetables. New Zealand is in a Zealand horticulture industry aims wanting fresh fruit and vegetables,
unique possition, in that we have the to increase total export revenue to in their most natural form. Organic
ability to grow fruit and vegetables $10 billion by 2020, with a focus consumers have demonstrated a
directly in our collective backyard. on innovation. As New Zealand’s willingness to pay a premium for
population is predicted to grow to crops grown in a way that they
Food systems around the world just over five million by 2020, we also believe benefits the environment.
are rapidly changing. Innovation need to secure access to sufficient This premium provides an incentive
is disrupting traditional methods resources to feed our nation. for growers to grow crops using
of farming and distribution. New organic methods.
A consumer survey released in
Zealand has an opportunity to
March 2017 proved the importance Labelling food and educated
provide high quality food if we can
to New Zealanders of buying local. purchasing decisions will support
ensure we continue to have enough
the New Zealand horticulture sector
access to natural resources and land. Clearly labelled local produce creates
to grow, flourish, and be first choice
We are fortunate to have access to a compelling reason for consumers to
when people pick their food.
natural resources. As a nation, we are purchase home-grown products.
at an advantage as we can add value
Temperature and oxygen exposure
to our products that other countries
will affect fresh produce and can
naturally do not have the ability to do.
alter the nutritional composition,
As demand for housing increases, making it less nutritious, supporting
rural areas located close to urban the need for local food. For example,
areas are coming under pressure for transporting fruit without refrigeration
land use change. While housing may or adequate packaging may cause
achieve the highest value for the land, over-ripeness and potentially damage
it reduces New Zealand’s ability to the fruit.
support horticulture and secure
year-round supply of fresh fruit
and vegetables.
30 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDNew Zealand would benefit from an authentic food story.
The story we create behind our food captures added value for
New Zealand. We need to identify our regional ‘superfoods’ and
encourage chefs and foodservice distributors to promote these
products so they can be experienced to their full capacity.
Consumers have said they want
Country of Origin Labelling.
71% of New Zealanders want to know where
their fruit and vegetables come from.
70% consider New Zealand-grown fruit and
vegetables as being important to them.
Sources: Food Miles – the international debate and implications for New Zealand exporters, Business & Sustainability Series briefing paper 2006, Landcare Research
‘Food-miles’ danger for NZ exports, 2009, Otago Daily Times | Country of origin labelling, Consumer NZ and Horticulture NZ Consumer Survey 2017
Local Nutrition, Center for Health and the Global Environment, Harvard School of Public HealthPopulation
Will New Zealand be able to feed its future population?
Using Statistics NZ import and To forecast domestic consumption,
Our current consumption levels
export data, combined with we first estimated the weekly average
of fresh produce in retail and food
the Fresh Facts 2016 Report, we consumption per person in 2016.
service shows that net production is
have made projections around (We took the average household
already below what is required for
annual food volumes available for weekly spend on fresh vegetables
domestic consumption, meaning
consumption in New Zealand. and divided this by the average retail
we can expect food shortages.
price per kg of fresh vegetables). Given
This is based on assumptions that This further highlights the
that the average household consists
every New Zealander will eat all 10 importance of food security, land
of 2.7 people, we are able to calculate
vegetables - at the same current production and future-proofing the
the average weekly consumption per
proportions and at the availability of resources to supply our
person. Using Statistics New Zealand
same rate - across retail, fresh and growing population.
population growth forecasts, and
food services.
While we have plenty of land assuming consumption per person
With New Zealand’s population available for fruit and vegetable does not change over the next five
expected to reach 5,045,000 by 2020 growth, there is no strategy in place years, we can forecast the increase
(based on annual growth between to protect this valuable land as a way in domestic consumption as our
1.5 - 2 percent), domestic food supply to future-proof our food supply. population grows.
will not be able to sustain our future
population consumption needs.
32 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDNew Zealand’s population growth forecast to 2020
New Zealand’s population is forecast to grow annually for the next three
years, which highlights the need to increase our food production.
2.5% 5.045M
4.958M
2.0%
4.863M
4.762M
1.5% 4.662M
1.0%
0.5%
0%
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Annual Population Growth Rate (%) Total Population
Domestic consumption vs net availability of the 10 key vegetables
If we apply our 2016 food availability estimate, we won’t be able to feed
our current and growing population.
996,600 TN
979,670 TN
960,730 TN
940,690 TN
921,660 TN
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Domestic food tonnage available
Domestic consumption
for consumption
Sources: Statistics New Zealand Household Economic Survey 2016 Expenditure tables | Statistics New Zealand Agricultural Production Survey 2014 Indoor Outdoor Vegetables by Region
Fresh Facts 2016 Report - www.freshfacts.co.nz/files/freshfacts-2016.pdf | Statistics New Zealand NZIER population quarterly predictions – June 2017
Statistics New Zealand Average Food Prices 2006-2017 | Statistics New Zealand 2013 CensusA self-sufficient
New Zealand
Horticultural exports are valued at Highlighting the natural connections
$3.4 billion with vegetable exports between people and food can
The horticulture valued at $615 million. Maintaining be a powerful way to get the
sector not only and growing this level of economic
contribution is heavily reliant on
community involved and interested
in horticulture. For example, urban
provides our having a sufficient labour force. gardens and organic collectives
population with The 5,500 fruit and vegetable create an emotional connection
vital nutrition, it also growers. in New Zealand employ
about 60,000 people.
between the food we eat, the value
of the land it comes from, and
makes a significant the grower.
Continued growth in the sector will
contribution to the require greater numbers of skilled, Horticulture in New Zealand
wider economy; educated workers available to work in also plays an important role in
building a stronger, the sector. Not only does this include supporting our Pacific neighbours.
those that work on-farm; but also the The Recognised Seasonal Employer
more self-sufficient related professions of scientists, agri- (RSE) scheme allows companies in
New Zealand. tech specialists, educators, and even the horticulture industry to recruit
robotics designers. seasonal staff from other Pacific
countries, when there is a limited
Without planning to attract and
amount of resource in New Zealand.
keep younger generations interested
This scheme sees more than $40
and passionate about a career in
million invested back into Pacific
horticulture, we will not have enough
nations, and is used to fund housing
workers in the industry.
and education in local communities.
34 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDDespite these good news stories, there
are also some sobering statistics. The
spread of new housing areas around
our cities is resulting in prime growing
areas for horticulture being lost.
Between 1975 and 2012, nine percent
of our growing land (or 10,399ha) was
converted from horticulture to other
land use. If this rate of conversion
continues, it will have long-term
consequences for New Zealand, and
place at risk the country’s ability to feed
its population.
If we do not have enough land to
produce the fruit and vegetables our
population requires, prices will increase
as demand increases, resulting in more
imports to fill the gap.
Sources: 2016 NZIER report ‘Horticulture and Viticulture Labour Market Forecasts -- Kiwifruit, Pipfruit, Summerfruit
Fresh facts 2016 | Data: Plant & Food Research’s Fresh Facts annual accumulated statistics.
Implications of Urban Form on Suburban Food Production Potential:
The Case of Auckland City-New Zealand, June 2016, ResearchGate
Horticulture New Zealand
HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALAND | 35Megatrends
1. Future world consumers People want to know where their 2. Growing populations
food comes from and would
More than ever before, consumers By 2050, it is projected that the
like to connect with the grower
are shaping and influencing global population will reach nine
directly and understand their
our food systems. Technology is billion. Growers and agricultural
story. Companies such as My Food
providing them with instant access companies will be required to
Bag are changing our access to
to the latest in food solutions via re-think how they can grow
food. The provision of these food
multiple digital platforms. more with less. As life expectancy
solutions - delivered straight to
increases, and health improves, it is
As populations increase, and ethical our doorstep, with customised
estimated that globally we will need
standards for food production ingredients and instructions
60 percent more food by 2050.
hit the spotlight, novel ways to on how to create chef-inspired
create “clean” food will flood the meals - is changing the convenience Increasing resource constraints –
food systems. Cellular agriculture of food and and shaping our coupled with the effects of climate
and agri-food technologies will food systems. change and water scarcity - mean
recreate food to get more out that growers are under pressure to
of less resources. Foods that are find viable alternatives to traditional
specifically tailored to meet unique farming practices. As a nation with
requirements for each individual access to natural resources, New
will recreate how we eat food, and Zealand can capitalise on this and
reflect the move towards ‘food as add value to the wider food system
fuel’ for maximum nutrition. with our natural products.
36 | HORTICULTURE NEW ZEALANDYou can also read
