Record Kiwifruit Harvest Creates 19,000 Jobs in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is set to benefit significantly from a record kiwifruit harvest, which is expected to create approximately 19,000 jobs in the region. This year’s harvest, forecasted to yield 221 million trays of kiwifruit, marks a major milestone for the local agricultural sector. The season runs from March to June 2024, commencing with Zespri’s RubyRed variety, followed by its gold and green varieties.

According to Matt Cowley, chief executive of the Tauranga Business Chamber, the success of the kiwifruit sector directly contributes to the economic well-being of the entire Bay of Plenty. Cowley stated, “When the kiwifruit sector wins, the entire Bay of Plenty wins.” His remarks highlight the interconnected nature of the agricultural industry and regional prosperity.

As hiring ramps up for this peak season, Mike Murphy, head of communications and strategic projects at New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc, confirmed that job opportunities are available not only in the Bay of Plenty but also nationwide, with a total of 24,000 jobs expected across the country.

The workforce needed for the harvest is diverse, with Murphy noting that 37% of the positions will be filled by recognised seasonal employees. Additionally, 17% of the roles will be occupied by working holiday visa holders, while the remaining 46% will be filled by New Zealand citizens and residents. This distribution illustrates the reliance on both domestic and international labor to meet the demands of the harvest.

The kiwifruit industry’s growth not only creates employment opportunities but also supports local businesses and services that cater to seasonal workers. As the harvest begins, the Bay of Plenty community is poised to experience a boost in economic activity, fostering a sense of optimism among local stakeholders.

With the impressive forecast of 221 million trays, the kiwifruit sector is gearing up for what could be one of its most productive seasons yet. The ripple effects of this harvest are expected to enhance various sectors within the region, from transportation to hospitality, further solidifying the importance of agriculture in New Zealand’s economy.

As the season unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring that the workforce is adequately supplied and that the harvest is managed effectively, maximizing the benefits for the Bay of Plenty and beyond. The local community is ready to embrace the opportunities that come with this record-breaking season, reaffirming the region’s status as a vital player in the global kiwifruit market.