Covered Cropping NZ is an umbrella organisation, set up by TomatoesNZ (TNZ) and Vegetables NZ (VNZI) to look after the needs of capsicum, chilli, cucumber, eggplant and tomato growers. These 5 crops have many things in common - in New Zealand they are typically grown in greenhouses; these crops generally grow better in a heated environment and the pest and disease pressures also have similarities; it is also fairly common for growers of multiple crops, to have a mix of these crops specifically so it makes sense for one organisation to be looking after the needs of these same growers.

What this means practically for growers:

For growers and the wider greenhouse industry, this means that I will become the first point of contact for these crops. In terms of governance, the TomatoesNZ board, who as growers of capsicums, cucumbers, aubergine and chillies in addition to tomatoes, already have a good insight into the challenges and opportunities for these crops, will be joined by 2 members selected by VNZI. They have already been hard at work developing a workplan for the new financial year for Covered Cropping NZ. It includes projects looking at research and development, pest and disease, energy and promotions.

What isn’t changing?

There are some aspects of TNZ and VNZI that won’t be changing. Both entities will remain as separate legal operations. The levy rate and who growers and levy collection agencies currently pay levy to, won’t be changing. The ability for growers to have a voice and share their thoughts won’t change. Also remaining unchanged is the importance that is placed on hearing from growers of all sizes and including all areas of the country. For example, if a small grower in the South Island will still have a voice and representation on the board.

What does VNZI and TNZ hope to achieve with this move?

Ultimately, the hope is that the needs and concerns of all 5 crops are addressed in a way that avoids overlap and maximises collaboration and levy money. Covered Cropping NZ will communicate on projects and education opportunities with the wider grower group, making sure that all TNZ and VNZI growers and the wider greenhouse industry have access to resources that are developed and events that are planned.

Changes to the staffing of the wider vegetable sector

The formation of Covered Cropping NZ is part of a wider vegetable organisational restructure with the formation of NZVeg. As of 1^st April, outdoor crops will be managed by Kazi Talaska who has been managing Onions NZ. For more information on NZVeg, please see the press release here.

If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact me dinah.cohen@tomatoesnz.co.nz