Kiwifruit's single point of entry (SPE) marketing structure is unique in NZ Horticulture. By having Zespri owned and controlled by grower shareholders, industry governance and leadership works collaboratively to ensure production meets the exacting standards of international markets while commanding a premium for the fruit that maximises returns to growers. The Zespri brand is synonymous with high taste, quality and consistency, with reliable supply ensuring NZ kiwifruit retains its small but growing place in the global fruit bowl.
Global GAP is the international standard for good agricultural practice that all kiwifruit producers must meet. This has mandatory requirements that follow legislation and voluntary requirements that promote best practices. These cover everything in orchard management from correct spray management practices, record keeping, and sustainability practices, to fair and equitable treatment of staff. The overall objective is safe, sustainable agriculture worldwide.
The kiwifruit industry in New Zealand is made up of a number of key groups including orchardists, contractors, post-harvest facilities and Zespri, as well as associated organisations such as independent laboratories, freight and logistic companies, and horticultural supply companies. Each entity has a range of roles with individual training requirements and career progression pathways. Entry level positions are often seasonal roles e.g. picking, pruning and other vine management tasks on orchard, or packing fruit in post-harvest facilities. These can lead on to more permanent roles as workers gain more experience and undertake further study. More technical roles and higher management positions often require a tertiary qualification, but these can come from a wide range of faculties including Science, Technology, or Business.
This varies depending on what kind of employment you enter.