Hawke’s Bay vegetable growers have today confirmed that while it is not workable for them to continue to explore purchasing the McCain vegetable processing facility in Hastings, they remain committed to securing a future for frozen vegetable production in the region.
The growers’ interest in the McCain facility was on the basis that the processing equipment would be part a sale and would remain in place, allowing frozen vegetable production to continue should a purchase proceed. They have since learned the equipment is no longer available.
Grower spokesperson Hew Dalrymple said the growers had explored the opportunity thoroughly and in good faith but had ultimately been left with no option other than to withdraw their offer.
“This is an incredibly disappointing outcome for us all, but on learning the processing equipment is no longer available, that fundamentally changed the situation.
“While this particular chapter has come to an end, it doesn’t diminish our commitment to finding a future for vegetable growing and frozen vegetable production in Hawke’s Bay. Our growers remain committed to exploring what opportunities may still exist.”
Hastings District Mayor Wendy Schollum said it was a disappointing outcome after months of work and acknowledged the efforts growers had made to secure the future of the facility.
“We have worked alongside growers throughout this process, and I want to acknowledge the enormous effort they have invested over recent months to explore every possible option.
“This is a disappointing outcome for the workers, growers, contractors and businesses connected to the plant, but it is about far more than one facility. Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s key food-producing regions, and vegetable growing and processing are vital to local jobs, our regional economy and the country’s food security.
“If we want New Zealand to keep producing and processing more of its own food, we need practical action to support this sector. We will continue to stand alongside growers and advocate to Central Government for a strong and sustainable future for vegetable growing and processing.”
Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Will Foley said discussions with Central Government would continue.
“While this particular pathway has come to an end, our work does not stop here.
“We remain in active discussions with Government because its support will be critical to determining whether there is a sustainable future for vegetable growing and processing in Hawke’s Bay.
“This industry has been part of our region for generations. We owe it to our growers, workers and communities to continue exploring every opportunity to retain and grow that capability into the future.”
The councils said they would continue working alongside growers, industry and Government to determine whether there remains a viable future for vegetable growing and frozen vegetable processing in Hawke’s Bay.
