March 24, 2015
Maori kiwifruit growers back industry change
Kiwifruit growers have voted in record numbers for a new industry strategy including dedicated Maori representation at the board table.
Te Awanui Huka Pak chair Neil Te Kani says there was over 90 percent support for the recommendations of the Kiwifruit Industry Strategy Project.
He says Maori are a driving force in the industry, and the project will ensure the industry creates wealth for Maori now and for future generations.
Getting a dedicated seat on the grower representative body ensures Maori have a say in industry decisions .
Mr Te Kani called on New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated, Zespri and the Government to respect growers’ wishes and implement the changes called for in the referendum.
There was near universal support for continuing the single point of entry structure for marketing kiwifruit outside of New Zealand and Australia.
Other recommendations include changing Zespri’s funding structure, giving more control to shareholders, and reducing dividends to former growers who no longer supply fruit but still own shares.
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