The three-day sold-out event will bring together 350 industry members from around the country  

More than 350 people are set to attend this year’s annual New Zealand Apples and Pears Conference held at Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre. 

Maurice Windle

T&G’s Maurice Windle will speak on productivity 

The conference, which runs from 29 July until the afternoon of 31 July, will bring together growers and industry members from across the country. 

This sold-out summit is themed ‘Reset, Growth, Ambition’ and reflects the challenges and opportunities facing the apple and pear industry, as well as the industry’s ongoing commitment to building a more sustainable, productive, and inclusive food sector.  

Highlights from the programme include the keynote speech from associate minister of agriculture Nicola Grigg, day two’s panel session on productivity, a deep dive into the future of advanced breeding and the conference’s final session, which features a discussion on future-focused orchards with young growers.   

New Zealand Apples and Pears chief executive Karen Morrish said the annual conference is a highpoint on the industry’s calendar. 

“At a time when our industry is facing multiple challenges across many facets of business, this year’s conference will provide insights, inspiration and even some light relief to our growers – all of which is needed right now,” she said.