Haumako Embraces Innovation During Envy Apple Harvest In Wairoa

Haumako Horticulture is transforming the landscape of Wairoa—both literally and economically—as it leads the region’s transition from traditional farming to high-tech horticulture. Now in the peak of its Envy apple export harvest, the orchard is already reaping the benefits of strategic investment in innovation, local talent, and sustainable regional development.

The harvest, which began in mid-March, has now ended the final stretch of a tight 21-day picking window. Haumako’s workforce—comprising permanent staff, cadets, and casual workers—is meeting the challenge with efficiency, pride, and the support of cutting-edge technology.

Dwayne Russell, Workforce Manager for Haumako Horticulture plays a vital role in ensuring the orchard operates smoothly each day.

“My job is to forecast labour demand, so our orchard teams have the right people, in the right place, at the right time. This season, we've seen an influx of casual workers joining our cadets and permanent staff. Together, they’re managing logistics, forklifts, tractor operations, and fruit handling while studying their Level 3 Certificate in Primary Industries.

Once a grazing and cropping property, Haumako’s 109-hectare Whakapau Farm now includes 30 hectares of high-density Envy apples—a premium variety grown under license from Turners and Growers (T&G). The fruit is processed at T&G’s storage and export facilities, bound for global markets including China.

The move into horticulture began with the development of Tara Orchard in partnership with Ohuia Incorporation. That success helped shape Haumako’s more recent investments at Whakapau, where the goal is to position Wairoa as a thriving horticultural hub.

This season marks a technological leap forward with the introduction of several automated picking platforms. These platforms replace the traditional ladder-and-bag method with conveyor belts that gently transport apples from tree to bin—improving fruit quality and reducing physical strain on workers.

Sirius Tamati-Smith, a cadet graduate and 2024 Gisborne Young Grower of the Year – Best Apple Grower, says the platforms are a game changer.

“The old way of ladder-picking, especially climbing to the eighth wire, has taken a real toll—particularly on our experienced workers. These platforms reduce the stress on their bodies and allow them to stay in the industry longer, mentoring the next generation.”

Frank King, Block Lead at Tara Orchard says the benefits are already evident on the ground.

“There’s real progress and productivity—and our team feels it. Less bending, less lifting, and less sick days.”

The improved safety conditions have also reduced the risk of injury, while enhancing long-term retention of skilled orchard labour.

"We’re seeing the kind of performance that shows this technology isn’t just smart, it’s necessary," adds King.

Haumako currently employs 17 full-time orchard staff and prioritises hiring and upskilling locals—especially rangatahi—through its cadetship programme. Long-term plans include developing water storage facilities, new orchard infrastructure, and a purpose-built coolstore to support continued growth.

This is about building more than an orchard. It’s about creating long-term opportunities for our people and our region,” says Russell.

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