Airline set to move up to 1,000 tonnes of cherries throughout December and January
Air New Zealand Cargo is set to move 5,000 tonnes of cargo through December and January including up to 1,000 tonnes of cherries.
Air New Zealand general manager of cargo, Anne Dunne, said New Zealand has an exceptional fresh produce market and it is a privilege to connect its high-quality products with global markets, especially at this time of year.
“We love playing a part in helping deliver some of New Zealand’s finest exports to the world, including New Zealand’s much-loved premium lamb and cherries,” she said.
“Exports play such an important role in New Zealand’s economy, driving growth and supporting local communities which is why we work hard to partner with those exporters who have sought after commodities in international markets.”
Cherries are especially popular in Asia during the weeks leading up to Lunar New Year, a time when they’re considered a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and family unity.
“With 80 per cent of New Zealand’s cherry crop exported during this period, we want to make sure no cherry is left behind,” Dunne said.
The airline will support exporters from across New Zealand to move up to 1,000 tonnes of cherries to key export markets like Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, as well as smaller shipments to North America. Through partnerships with other airlines, New Zealand’s sought after cherries also make their way to Vietnam.
“Whether it’s lamb for a roast, cherries for a celebration, or seafood for a summer feast, it’s a privilege to partner with Kiwi exporters to deliver on our purpose of connecting Kiwi and the products they produce to the world,” Dunne said.
