Five of the horticulture industry’s top achievers were recognized at the New Zealand Horticulture Industry Awards in Wellington, with local Te Puke and Katikati talents shining bright. The awards celebrate those who have made outstanding contributions to New Zealand’s commercial fruit and vegetable sectors.
Local Stars Take the Stage
The Te Puke-based team of Gordon Skipage and Pranoy Pal from Trevelyan Pack and Cool Ltd. took home the Sustainable Innovation Award. The duo was honored for their work on regenerative agriculture trials, which are laying the groundwork for more sustainable, low-carbon production within the kiwifruit industry. Their research provides valuable, evidence-based knowledge that will help the sector become more resilient to climate change.
Katikati’s Daniel Kenna was presented with the President’s Trophy, an award recognizing promising business or leadership talent in the industry. As an orchard manager and researcher with KW KIWI, Kenna has made significant contributions to research, community, and sustainability. He also co-chairs Future Farmers NZ and partnered with Zespri to create the ION Impact Orchard Network, a program focused on developing and demonstrating sustainable orchard practices.
Honoring a Lifetime of Service
The industry’s most prestigious award, the Horticulture Bledisloe Cup, was given to Andrew Fenton. For over five decades, Fenton has been a passionate leader, known for his practical, common-sense approach and positive attitude. He currently serves as president and chair of the New Zealand Fruitgrowers Federation and the New Zealand Fruitgrowers Charitable Trust.
Additionally, Stewart Burns, managing director of Camelot Fresh Fruit Company in Hastings, was named a Horticulture New Zealand Life Member. Burns was recognized for his honorable service to the industry, his support for grower collaboration, and his work in introducing new orchard techniques and fruit varieties.
A New Standard for Worker Care
The Manaaki Award went to a collaborative team from T&G Global, Hastings Health Centre, and OrbitProtect/nib NZ. They were honored for their work in creating a satellite health clinic at a packhouse in Hawke’s Bay, a first for New Zealand. The clinic provides accessible care to all Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers in the region and has been so successful that it will be a permanent fixture for future seasons.
