The Mayors of Central Hawke’s Bay, Hastings and Napier, alongside Council Chief Executives, met with Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay in Hawke’s Bay yesterday to discuss the future of the region’s food processing sector.

The meeting, requested by the Minister, brought together local government leaders and regional MPs to discuss the recent announcements by Heinz Wattie’s and McCain Foods, and their implications for the region.

Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum said the Minister’s engagement was welcomed.

“This is an important issue, and we appreciate the Minister taking the time to come to Hawke’s Bay and hear directly from local leaders,” she said.

“As New Zealand’s largest horticulture-producing region, we have the soils, the climate, and the capability - and we should be using those strengths to continue growing great food.”

Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Will Foley said the scale of the potential impact is significant.

“It is estimated that more than 100 growers could be affected, representing around 21 percent of the processed vegetable sector in Hawke’s Bay.

“It was encouraging to have an open and constructive discussion with the Minister about both the challenges and the opportunities facing the sector.”

Napier Mayor Richard McGrath said the visit demonstrated the importance of the issue at a national level.

“It was valuable to have the Minister here, engaging directly with local leaders and gaining a clear understanding of the regional context.”

Mayor Schollum said the region looks forward to continuing to work with the Minister and Government.

“We appreciate the Minister’s willingness to engage and the opportunity to contribute to these discussions.

“This is about working constructively together to support the long-term future of food production in Hawke’s Bay.”

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