Statistics

In the year ended 31 March 2026, Tomatoes New Zealand represented approximately 144 fresh tomato growers, with an estimated industry farm gate value of $177.3 million.

Exports

New Zealand growers exported 1,580 tonnes of fresh tomatoes, valued at $8.2 million FOB, to 15 countries and jurisdictions in the year ended 31 March 2026. The main export season is from October to April each year. Japan remains New Zealand’s largest export market for fresh tomatoes, followed by Fiji and New Caledonia. In 2025/26, 921 tonnes were exported to Japan, 231 tonnes to Fiji and 162 tonnes to New Caledonia.

 Tomato exports by year and destination 

Imports

Fresh tomatoes can presently only be imported from Australia and must meet New Zealand’s biosecurity requirements.

There has been an embargo on fresh tomatoes from Australia since late August 2024, when Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) was detected in Australia.

Before the embargo, the import season usually ran from June to October.

Tomato Prices and Supply in NZ

Statistics New Zealand Household Economic Survey figures show New Zealand households spent approximately $153 million on fresh tomatoes in the year ended June 2023.