Wi Pere to showcase horticultural success

FINAL JUDGING: Wi Pere Trust will showcase themselves to the judges in the final of the Ahuwhenua Trophy competition for excellence in Māori horticulture on Thursday. A public field day starts at 9.30am at Tangihanga Orchard in Lavenham Road. Picture supplied

The Wi Pere Trust Horticulture team were named as one of three finalists in this year’s Ahuwhenua Trophy competition.

On Thursday they will host a field day as part of the final judging.

The Ahuwhenua Trophy was inaugurated by visionary Māori leader Sir Apirana Ngata and the Governor General at the time Lord Bledisloe.

Today, the trophy remains the supreme accolade to win in Māori agriculture and horticulture and is recognised as the most prestigious and comprehensively judged award in New Zealand.

It aims to showcase achievements in the Māori farming and horticultural sectors, in particular successful approaches to governance, financing, management and the recognition of ngā tikanga Māori.

Wi Pere is a diverse horticultural operation with investments in gold kiwifruit, persimmons, blueberries, citrus and apples.

They are a significant employer in the region and provide year-round employment across their range of crops.

Wi Pere strive to be at the “leading edge” of fruit production, as well as being strong guardians of their whenua for future generations.

Modern growing systems, coupled with highly skilled and loyal staff, ensure Wi Pere can deliver sustainable returns to shareholders, across both horticultural and farming operations.

Significant capital investment is made annually to support their business developments and allow their crops to thrive in the best possible environment.

Wi Pere trustees, management and shareholders were proud to reach the final and look forward to “delivering their story” to the judging panel and wider industry.

• The three-day event culminates with a public field day on Thursday at Tangihanga Orchard at 864 Lavenham Road.
• The day commences with a pōwhiri at 9.30am.