A series of consultations with apple and pear growers across New Zealand is underway to determine the future of the levy funding NZ Apples and Pears Incorporated (NZAPI). The levy, which is collected from commercial growers, is up for renewal. The government requires NZAPI to hold a vote every six years to decide on the continuation of this levy, with the current levy set to expire on 16 January 2025. Over the past months, growers have been engaged through regional meetings, webinars, newsletters, and public notices to gather their input ahead of an April referendum.
All growers involved in the production of apples and pears for consumption or export are eligible to vote in the referendum. The voting process, which will be available online and by post, is scheduled from 9am, 8 April to 12 noon, 3 May 2024. Should the levy be approved, NZAPI plans to request the renewal of the Levy Order from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in May. NZAPI emphasizes the levy's significant role in supporting the industry over the past three decades.
Source: ruralnewsgroup.co.nz