Growers like Rex and Helen have a keen sense of purpose in their work: to provide nutritious food for people. Through passionate and responsible care for the land, they work to provide nutritious Kiwifruit for their community and beyond.
When crops were struck by disease in 2012, Sean managed to grow varieties that could survive the epidemic. He shared that knowledge with other growers, keeping them alive in the trade.
Actions like these capture the community spirit of growers and their mutual efforts in being guardians of the land.
Growers know they hold a big responsibility to the land they own. With an emphasis on reducing the use of plastics and championing sustainable growing practices on their orchards, Craig and Lani know that as guardians of their land, they have a role to play in keeping the ground healthy and protected.
It would be a loss for these hard-learned values to dissipate and that is why growers have their eye on the next generation - those who would inherit the earth. Craig, a second generation grower, hopes his two children would follow in his footsteps.
Zespri has rigorous selection and certification standards for its growers. Growers must meet strict farming practices and quality criteria set by Zespri. Regular audits and checks are carried out to ensure that growers meet these standards and maintain the high levels of quality and sustainability required.
Zespri kiwifruits are grown in different regions around the world. These geographical locations allow for continuous production throughout the year, as kiwis have different growing seasons in different countries. The regions are carefully selected to provide the ideal climatic and soil conditions for high quality and flavourful kiwifruit.
Zespri has a strong commitment to sustainability and works together with its growers to ensure responsible agricultural practices. The cooperative promotes the responsible use of natural resources, the protection of the environment and the well-being of local communities. In addition, Zespri encourages the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, such as efficient water use, responsible waste management and biodiversity conservation.
