Govt nurturing New Zealand’s seed supply chain

Official release

Hawke’s Bay’s arable sector is set to benefit from a $3 million Regional Infrastructure Fund loan for a new grower-led seed cleaning, processing and storage facility in Central Hawke’s Bay, Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says.

“Currently, much of the seed grown in Hawke's Bay that requires specialist cleaning and processing is sent outside the region, including to as far away as Canterbury, before it can be sold domestically or exported. This adds cost, creates inefficiencies, and reduces returns for local growers” Mr Patterson says.

Previous government investment in 2023 supported development of a seed-drying facility, with the aim of creating high-value cropping opportunities in the region.

“This new investment builds on that foundation by bringing the full seed value chain together in one location, from drying and cleaning through to processing and storage.

“It reduces the need to transport seed outside the region for processing, meaning growers can retain more value locally while improving efficiency and resilience across the sector.

“The project positions Hawke’s Bay as a key hub for high-value seed production and will help support future growth in the sector."

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council has been working with local seed growers to bring the project to fruition and has coordinated efforts on the RIF application.

The facility will provide processing infrastructure for growers and seed companies across Hawke's Bay and the wider lower North Island, increasing processing capacity outside Canterbury and strengthening domestic supply chains.

The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) funding will be provided as a loan, alongside $750,000 of grower and industry co-funding.

"This investment is about backing Hawke's Bay growers with the infrastructure they need to expand production, increase exports and create long-term opportunities for the region," Mr Patterson says.

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