Reports show that opportunity is ripe for Northland’s crop potential

Northland Inc has today released a series of independent reports exploring the economic potential of nine new crops for Te Tai Tokerau, ahead of a series of workshops later this month.

The studies, commissioned through the Tuputupu Grow Northland initiative Pūtake Whakatupu – Foundation for Growth workstream, assess the market for pineapples, bananas, mango, papaya, ginger, turmeric, soy, sunflower, and moringa.

With funding through the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Fibre Futures Fund and independently prepared by consultants BDO and Scarlatti, the reports provide important insights into the economic opportunity that these crops potentially present to Northland and how they could contribute to both niche business opportunities and larger-scale sector development.

Luke Beehre, Project Lead for the Tuputupu Grow Northland initiative.

Northland Inc Programme Lead for the Tuputupu Grow Northland initiative, Luke Beehre, says the reports are an essential step in building the region’s understanding of what opportunities exist.

“These reports are one component of good due diligence process, helping farmers and growers identify crop options that could be successful in Northland, while also clarifying the infrastructure and support required to get them off the ground. Crop diversification is central to strengthening our regional economy and ensuring sustainable growth for our communities, and these studies pave the path for further work including specific crop trials, cultivar development and integration into existing farming systems.”

While some crops will best succeed as boutique or specialty ventures, others show promise at a much greater scale. Bananas have been identified as a strong candidate to collectively offer opportunity for a sub-tropical cluster across the region, with the potential to elevate the region’s profile and provide a benchmark of success. Together with papaya and pineapple, bananas highlight the potential for a tropical fruit cluster to develop in Northland.

The reports also point to alternative arable crops such as soy and sunflower as a potential cluster for development. With lower operating costs and the ability to integrate into existing crop equipment and farming systems, these crops offer an accessible entry point for diversification and value-add opportunities.

Beehre says the key to unlocking these opportunities is adaptability. “The importance of regional adaptation to capitalise on emerging industries and shifting climates is huge. These reports show us the scope of what is possible, not only in fresh fruit but in areas such as value-add manufacturing and waste stream processing. By building resilience into our food and fibre sector, we can ensure Northland is ready to seize the opportunities that suit our land, our people, and our markets.”

Sean O’Meara, BDO Regional Director - Project & Infrastructure Advisory, emphasises the value of robust evidence in planning for diversification. “Rigorous research like this provides a clear picture of both the opportunities and the challenges for Northland. It shows us not only which crops have potential, but also the importance of investment in the systems needed to support them. Shared food manufacturing and processing facilities, for example, would be game changers in enabling growers and businesses to turn promising ideas into commercial realities.”

The upcoming workshops will include presentations from both BDO and Scarlatti, focusing on the economic potential of the specified crops and sharing the latest market data. Participants will be invited to provide feedback and discuss the next steps for progressing opportunities. 

Workshop Dates & Locations
Whangārei – Tue 23 Sept, 1–3pm, The Orchard Business and Event Hub
Kaitaia – Wed 24 Sept, 1–3pm, Kaitaia Digital Hub
Kaikohe – Thu 25 Sept, 1–3pm, Mahinga Innovation Centre

Registration links:
Register for all workshops via www.northlandnz.com/northland-inc/foundation-for-growth

Full reports, summaries and further information on the Tuputupu Grow Northland initiative can be found at: 

www.northlandnz.com/northland-inc/foundation-for-growth