Maori King, dignitaries at opening of Seeka office

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber, Kiingi Tuheitia and Trade Minister Todd McClay. Photo/John Borren

Seeka's new head office in Te Puke was opened yesterday by the Maori King, Kiingi Tuheitia.

The ceremony was attended by Trade Minister Todd McClay and some 400 growers, local government officials and community leaders.

Seeka has spent more than a year and $4 million rebuilding, modernising and customising the well-known kiwifruit slice-shaped 18-sided (octodecagon) building just outside Te Puke.

Chief executive Michael Franks said Seeka had outgrown its old head office in Te Puke.

"Last year we rebranded and repositioned the company and we now have a head office that is consistent with our vision for the company.

"We remain close to Te Puke and are headquartered amongst our growers in a modern, user-friendly building that will allow us to engage much more effectively with them."

Kiingi Tuheitia said the Kingitanga had a long association with Tauranga Moana.

The opening of the new Seeka head office. Photo/John Borren

"We are honoured to take part in opening the new Seeka head office.

"Maori trusts are the largest New Zealand shareholder group in Seeka and the company has been a committed partner of iwi in helping our people develop their resources.

"I am delighted to be here to demonstrate our ongoing engagement with the region, and our support for Seeka and what it is doing for the kiwifruit industry and for all of us economically."