It is proposed that the fresh tomato levy may be spent on the following purposes:

   Research & Development

• Work with industry, research partners, and government to develop sustainable solutions to meet current and future challenges including crop protection, exporting, energy and waste management.
• Continue to work with the Vegetable Research & Innovation Board which is co-funded by the vegetable product groups for collaborative research activities.

   Grower Representation

• Your voice in Wellington.
• Continue advocacy on issues such as Emissions Trading Scheme, climate change and irradiated food labelling, along with any other issues arising for fresh tomato growers.
• Communicate key industry issues to the public when appropriate.

   Education & Training

• Support Horticulture New Zealand initiatives for people development, leadership, access to labour, and training.

   Market Development & Promotion

• Continue to promote tomato consumption within New Zealand through vegetables.co.nz.
• Continue to develop export markets and assisting exporters to access them.

   Information & Communication

• Ensure topical information is available to all growers in user friendly and accessible formats.
• Provide opportunities to engage with knowledgeable experts and share information at workshops and the annual TomatoesNZ conference.

   Development of Quality Assurance

• Maintain presence on the board of NZGAP ensuring that this remains a tool that meets growers’ needs.

   Biosecurity (proposed new purpose)

• Work with MPI to reduce biosecurity risks and increase industry preparedness

   Day-to-day administration of the product group

• Management and coordination of the TomatoesNZ board meetings.
• Project management and financial oversight.
• Liaison with stakeholders and other horticulture groups.