Haumako update

Over the past four months, Haumako has continued to build strong momentum across orchard operations, workforce development, and infrastructure.

Operationally, the team has delivered well through a critical harvest period. The Jugala harvest was completed efficiently within a short window, achieving strong export-quality outcomes, with 94% of the crop picked sent for export. This has been followed by the Envy harvest across both Tara and Whakapau orchards, which is currently underway, with fruit actively being picked and processed through post-harvest facilities. Total Envy harvest outcomes will not be determined until all fruit is packed and sold.

From a workforce perspective, Haumako has maintained a stable core team of approximately 15 full-time staff, supported by seasonal local workers and RSE labour during peak periods. The focus remains on growing a sustainable, locally driven workforce through cadetships, training pathways, and the creation of long-term employment opportunities. We are currently in the application stage of seeking support from Te Puni Kōkiri to support this growth. This aligns strongly with the workforce strategy of building a 100% local workforce connected to the whenua over time.

Infrastructure development has also progressed, particularly the water storage dam extension. While weather has caused some delays, works are advancing, with key milestones nearing completion, with dam lining scheduled for early May. In parallel, orchard development at Whakapau continues to mature, with full installation of hail netting across the 2023 planting and irrigation systems now complete. The focus this year is on hail installation for the 2024 planting, as well as grafting and new planting in August.

Strategically, Haumako continues to balance commercial performance across all pou. As one season’s crop comes off, we move straight into preparing our trees and planning for the next year’s crop!