Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit Photo: Zespri / supplied
Zespri growers have overwhelmingly voted in support of increasing SunGold plantings in other countries.
The marketing company wanted to extent its global supply by up to 420 additional hectares over six years across Italy, France, South Korea and Greece to ensure it can provide fruit to customers all year round.
Under the Kiwifruit Export Regulations, a producer vote must receive at least 75 percent support by individual votes and by fruit weigh from those who vote to be successful.
The resolution was supported by 90.6 percent of growers who voted, and 93.29 percent by fruit weight count.
Zespri chief executive Jason Te Brake said he was really pleased with the result.
"We've had really strong support and engagement from our growers through the process, they really helped us design this resolution so it's great they've then supported it.
"The outlook for Zespri Kiwifruit is positive. I've spent a lot of time in the markets with our customers in 2024, they want more of our fruit, and they want it all year. The result of this vote is crucial as we continue working towards 12-month supply for key customers in key markets, filling more demand and supporting New Zealand grower returns into the future."
Te Brake said extending international plantings will begin next year.
The result comes towards the end of a strong season for Zespri, with a record 190 million tray crop volume delivered, and forecast orchard gate returns for November up across almost all categories compared to the August forecast.
Forecast per hectare returns are at record levels for Green and Organic Green on the back of improved yields while maintaining strong value in the market.