From The Chair
With limes currently being harvested and Northland Satsumas due to begin next week, signalling the start of the main season, it’s encouraging to hear the crop is looking promising and returns are favourable.
As always, there are external factors at play, and I understand the effects of international events and flow on to fuel pricing will see further pressure placed on margins. How long and or impact on imports and export opportunities are still to be determined but continues the need to flexible in approach to markets and nimble to pivot if needed.
Citrus NZ will continue delivering its work programme as planned, with the review of the research function now nearing completion.
The Market Monitoring Programme is currently under review, with a focus on ensuring it is fit for purpose and delivers greater value for growers.
The Navel Monitoring Programme will also undergo a few minor adjustments this season, aimed at strengthening consistency in the eating experience for consumers. Packhouses will be consulted over the coming week to gather feedback on the proposed changes.
As I write this it is pleasing to read no further fruit fly detections have occurred and our biosecurity work and contribution will continue.
The Watties announcement, whilst not impacting our sector directly, I do believe that it is symptomatic of the environment that many industry sectors are faced with to this end I am working with several groups to look to a solution around share of the value in products. They say never waste a crisis and this does present an opportunity to understand where the margins sit. While if often feels like value sits with retailers, is this an opportunity to gather data and look at ways to rebalance the value chain? I do think that this is an excellent opportunity to work collectively to present a strong case for change options – to disclose margins and focus on fair trade not just free trade.
It’s a long shot but response to date is that it’s well worth some effort to have a go.
I hope the harvest goes well and all your hard work is well rewarded.
Regards,
Hugh Ritchie
In Depth
New Technical Advisory Panel from 1 April
From 1 April 2026, Citrus NZ will introduce a new Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) to support the way research and development is governed, aligning with the move to a contestable tendering process.
This updated model has been designed to retain and expand technical expertise within the industry, while preserving more than 25 years of R&D knowledge. It also reflects the need to ensure levy investment is carefully prioritised in a tighter funding environment.
Under the new structure, the TAP will replace the existing R&D committee and will play an independent advisory role- reviewing research ideas for feasibility and providing input on outcomes. The Citrus NZ Board will set overall research priorities, while the Executive Manager will manage procurement and tender evaluation. Project delivery will sit with suppliers, supported by regular reporting.
Importantly, the TAP will not be involved in procurement or delivery, ensuring it can maintain strong technical oversight while remaining independent. The voluntary panel will also work alongside Regional Advisory Groups (RAGs) to help ensure research investment delivers real value for growers.
Citrus NZ welcomes expressions of interest from researchers, technical advisors, and consultants interested in contributing to this work- either as part of the TAP or as service providers. To register your interest, please submit an EOI to by 31 March.
Service providers can apply for project opportunities as they arise in R&D, biosecurity, market access and data management/integration.
Project tenders will be listed on the Citrus NZ website, with businesses notified via email when they are first released.
Portfolio Updates
R&D Update
Citrus NZ recently commissioned Market Access Solutionz (MAS) to review crop protection gaps and risks for the New Zealand citrus industry, including future scenarios where high-risk products may no longer be available.
The review found that while control options currently exist for key pests, there are emerging risks-particularly for citrus flower moth and fungal diseases, due to a limited range of products and modes of action, raising resistance concerns. Insect control remains reliant on higher-risk compounds, some of which face potential withdrawal, including Diazinon, which is scheduled to be phased out by 2028. Fungicide options are also limited, with reliance on a small number of actives.
In response, Citrus NZ is progressing work through the A Lighter Touch programme, trialling both biological and synthetic alternatives for key pests such as Australian citrus whitefly and Kelly’s citrus thrips.
The review also highlights opportunities to support new product registrations, particularly for products already registered in New Zealand but not currently approved for use in citrus.
The full report is available here
Biosecurity UpdateCitrus growers contribute to a biosecurity levy that supports industry representation in national response decision-making, as well as a cost-sharing partnership with Government to manage incursions. This ensures the industry is well prepared and able to respond quickly to threats such as fruit fly. On 25 February 2026, a biosecurity response was initiated following the detection of a single male Oriental fruit fly (OFF, Bactrocera dorsalis) in a surveillance trap in Papatoetoe, Auckland. Testing confirmed this detection is not related to the OFF incursions identified in Papatoetoe and Birkdale in 2025. A further three OFF were detected on 2 March during routine trap checks within the wider B-zone. As a result, three A-zones were established, along with an expanded B-zone surrounding the A-zones. Genetic sequencing indicates the four flies are related and likely originated from eggs laid by a single female. This is a positive outcome, confirming the detections are from a new, single incursion rather than a continuation of last year’s events. Read more about the Papatoetoe response here. Controls were put in place to stop the movement of host fruit and vegetables out of the controlled area to prevent the spread of flies. Surveillance activities continue, including intensive trap checking and fruit sampling within A-zones, where collected fruit is inspected for larvae. Response operations are conducted according to the Fruit Fly Response Technical Standard. A Technical Working Group is convened to review evidence to determine the length of the response, or the next stage if a breeding population is identified. At this stage, no further flies have been found. Queensland Fruit Fly – Mt Roskill Response Concluded The response to the detection of a Queensland fruit fly (QFF, Bactrocera tryoni) in Mt Roskill, Auckland, concluded successfully on 21 February, with no further flies detected over nearly seven weeks of operations. All restrictions have now been lifted. Why Fruit Flies Matter The establishment of fruit flies in New Zealand would have significant economic implications for the horticulture sector. Trade access could be impacted, production costs would increase, and yield losses may occur. Adults lay their eggs just beneath the fruit’s skin, and the emerging larvae feed inside on the flesh, rendering it unmarketable. Citrus NZ is a signatory to the Fruit Fly Operational Agreement under the Government Industry Agreement (GIA), which primarily covers the key economically significant fruit flies- Queensland fruit fly, Oriental fruit fly, and Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata). Could Fruit Flies Establish in New Zealand? Queensland fruit fly is native to Australia and could establish in warmer regions of New Zealand. In Australia, QFF has moved south into areas with climate similar to New Zealand. It affects over 200 host species and is suited to tropical and sub-tropical climates. Oriental fruit fly, originating from Southeast Asia, poses an even greater risk. Climate data suggests that OFF could establish in more regions in New Zealand than QFF. Adult flies can tolerate colder temperatures, but eggs do not develop below 13°C. OFF could establish in the warmer northern regions of New Zealand and would have a greater impact than QFF as it has a larger host range (300+) and has the ability to infect immature fruit. Most fruit growing regions of New Zealand would favour the establishment of OFF. Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) is also a significant concern, with over 500 host species and the ability to tolerate a wide range of climates. Although a population may develop in the warmer months the ability to maintain a population is significantly diminished in the colder months. While populations may struggle to persist through colder winters, Medfly has previously been detected and successfully eradicated in New Zealand. Medfly was found in Napier and Blenheim in 1907 and eradicated. Following this event, stricter biosecurity rules for fruit imports were introduced. A Medfly incursion also occurred in 1996 after a breeding population was discovered in Mt Roskill, Auckland. After a month of intensive trapping and response operations, the population was successfully eradicated. Overall, both Oriental fruit fly and Medfly present a higher establishment risk than Queensland fruit fly, particularly where climatic conditions are favourable. |
Industry Updates
Trade Implications of the Iran Conflict
Citrus NZ is continuing to monitor the ongoing conflict involving Iran. While the direct impact on citrus markets remains limited at this stage, there is uncertainty around freight, fuel and input costs.
Citrus NZ will continue to keep growers updated as the situation evolves and any implications for the sector become clearer. In the meantime, we’ve pulled together a list of useful websites for regular updates:
MFAT: NZ Export Webinars
MBIE: Fuel Stock Updates
MPI: Resources to support food and fibre exporters
NZGAP Fee Increase
NZGAP has advised of changes to its fee structure that will come into effect from 1 April 2026. Growers and operators who are directly affected will receive direct communication outlining what this means for them.
These changes follow a period of increased investment by NZGAP in areas such as assurance systems, digital capability, data integrity, and the development of additional modules including Social Practice and the Environmental Management System (EMS).
The updated fees can be found here.
Export Registration to China
Businesses (involved in production, packing and processing) who intend to export to China this season must be registered with MPI. If you’ve previously registered, you do not need to re-register. Please note registrations must be submitted two to three months ahead of the export season.
To check your registration status, click here and enter the following in the search fields:
Type: Plants and plant products
Country/Region: [NZL] New Zealand
Product Type: Fresh fruits
Type of Enterprise: Either production, or packaging and processing
Or contact for further support.
Horticulture Infastructure Report Released
A supply chain report commissioned through the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan has found that regions like Gisborne are heavily reliant on a small number of key transport routes and infrastructure links to get fruit to market.
The findings highlight the importance of resilient infrastructure, strong regional connections, and reliable access to packhouses and markets to protect both product quality and grower profitability.
A summary of the report can be found here.
Acces the full report here.
In Brief
Thank you to those who attended the workshop presentations by Dr Lauren Diepenbrock and Dr Ariel Singerman. Both Associate Professors provided valuable insights into monitoring, surveillance, impacts, and the significant production losses experienced by the Florida citrus industry. The presentations are available for download: Dr Lauren Diepenbrock presentation here and Dr Ariel Singerman presentation here
A refreshed approach to citrus storytelling in 2026!
In a year-round citrus category, where both domestic and imported fruit are present, Citrus NZ will be placing a stronger focus on in-season messaging and differentiation across social media platforms this season.
For 2026, we are bringing our social media activity in-house and taking a more citrus-specific approach across Facebook and Instagram. This will allow us to better highlight what makes New Zealand citrus unique. You can expect to see more content focused on provenance, our growers, fresh recipes, and seasonal moments, all aimed at building stronger engagement with consumers and supporting purchase intent of New Zealand citrus.
We will continue to support wider industry platforms alongside our partner 5+ A Day. We encourage growers to follow, engage with, and share our content to help extend the reach of these messages.
Our social links are at the bottom of this newsletter.
New Resources Available Online
The 2026 Pest Controls Chart is now available to download from the Members Portal and in hard copy.
This poster lists all the active ingredients and trade names of products, as well as resistance management groups, the citrus crops they are used on, the pests they control, and the New Zealand MRL and PHI recommendations. The 2026 MRL & PHI Charts are also available in hardcopy and via the members portal. For a copy, please contact .
Opportunity for young citrus growers and staff
Outward Bound is currently offering discounted places on its one week and three week programmes for young adults aged 18 – 26, with courses running between July and September 2026. For citrus growers, this presents a great opportunity to invest in young staff. Discounts include 20% for one employee, 30% for two employees, and 50% for three or more employees.
To learn more, contact Krishan Kumar, Enrolments and Community Development Manager at or visit here.
Citrus Commodity Levy Order 2025 now in effect
The Commodity Levies (Citrus Fruit) Order 2025 came into force on 24 February 2026, replacing the 2019 Order. It imposes a mandatory levy on all New Zealand-grown citrus sold commercially, including fruit for processing. Growers are required to pay this levy to New Zealand Citrus Growers Incorporated (NZCGI) at the first point of sale. Citrus NZ is currently undertaking compliance checks to ensure obligations under the Order are being met.
Grower Advice & Tips
Harvest Is Underway
Harvest is underway with limes, with satsumas starting in Northland towards the end of next week, alongside Meyer lemons in Gisborne and Gisborne satsumas following from mid-April.
Harvest is one of the most critical operations on the orchard. It’s the single largest cost as a percentage of your growers return and it can have a significant impact on fruit quality if not well managed.
Harvest is one of the most critical operations on the orchard. It’s the single largest cost as a percentage of your growers return and it can have a significant impact on fruit quality if not well managed.
Citrus NZ has a range of resources to support you with harvest planning and training. The Citrus Picking and Harvest Protocols section of the Growing Citrus in New Zealand Guide is a great place to start, alongside posters and leaflets for your shed to reinforce good practice with your team.
So, what should you be focusing on?
People matter
Whether it’s family, friends or a contract crew, make sure your pickers understand what they’re doing – and why it matters. A bit of upfront training goes a long way in reducing damage and improving outcomes.
Have someone keeping an eye on quality
A field QC (that could be you, a manager, or a crew member) can make a big difference. Using a Harvest Assessment Sheet (available in the Grower Guide) helps identify issues early and address them quickly.
Use the right gear
Make sure pickers are properly equipped with clippers, gloves and picking bags.
Both satsumas and lemons need to be clipped from the tree, which introduces another risk point for fruit damage. Poor clipper use can lead to punctures, long or sharp stalks, or shaved fruit – all of which increase rejection rates. Blunt-nosed clippers are now more widely available and, while slightly more expensive, are easier to use and help reduce damage.
Picking bags or aprons should be used at all times. They keep fruit close to the picker and minimises dropping. Hard-sided containers – buckets, tubs, baskets or bins – that aren’t carried by the picker should be avoided. We’ve all heard fruit being thrown into a bin from a distance – and that’s where quality starts to slip.
For softer fruit like satsumas, and even for export-grade lemons, this kind of handling can quickly lead to damage, higher reject rates, and ultimately a lower return.
Industry Profile
Spotlight on… Taruheru Nursery
From its beginnings in Southern Italy in 1990 to its establishment in New Zealand in 2015, Taruheru Nursery has evolved into a diversified horticultural business with a strong focus on citrus propagation. Today, the nursery produces a wide range of plant material, including Avocados, persimmons, kiwifruit, and citrus, supported by a blend of scientific heritage and practical business experience.
The business has deep roots in plant science. With a family background in entomology, virology, and plant pathology, the nursery brings a strong technical understanding to production, but has also developed with a clear commercial focus. That combination has helped shape Taruheru Nursery into a modern operation with an emphasis on quality, resilience, and long-term industry value.
What goes into premium citrus plants?
A commercial citrus tree is a multi-year investment where every detail matters. Producing high-quality nursery stock is high-stakes work that combines technical precision with long-term planning. The difference between “marketable” and truly premium stock lies in the unseen processes behind the nursery gates.
Quality starts below the surface with carefully selected rootstock seeds matched to specific soil and climate conditions, plus scion wood from high-performing mother blocks to ensure trueness to type.
From cold stratification to grafting, precise timing aligns with optimal sap flow to create strong graft unions. Hardening-off then gradually transitions plants from tunnel houses to outdoor conditions, building structural strength for orchard establishment.
Container-grown trees rely on closed-loop nutrition (precise N-P-K balance) with automated irrigation, heated propagation, and humidity controls for consistent growth. Strict hygiene, sterilised media and elevated benching minimises disease risk.
The result: clean graft unions for efficient nutrient flow and strong root systems for vigorous early growth.
This requires significant infrastructure, two-year planning with market flexibility, and a skilled plant husbandry team. While growers see only the finished canopy, these steps determine long-term orchard success.
Industry changes and challenges
The New Zealand citrus industry has evolved significantly. From a collection of regionally focused orchards supplying local markets to a more sophisticated, biosecurity-conscious, and export-capable sector. One of the most notable changes has been geographic and varietal consolidation, with Gisborne emerging as a key production hub. While this has enabled improved infrastructure and knowledge sharing, it has unfortunately not always translated into stronger returns for growers.
At the same time, nurseries now sit firmly on the front line of industry risk. Climatic volatility continues to challenge production systems, but the growing threat of global plant pathogens presents an even greater concern. The risk posed by the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP), the vector for Huanglongbing (HLB) has forced our nursery to adopt tighter biosecurity protocols. The cost of compliance, along with the risk of accidental introduction, is now a permanent part of the business model, requiring ongoing investment in infrastructure and risk mitigation.
Shifting market demand
Market demand has shifted a bit. The initial surge of interest in easy-peel mandarins and export lemons, such as the ‘Yen Ben’, has levelled off, and now there is a growing demand for oranges and new seedless varieties.
High-density planting is also gaining traction, with some growers moving away from traditional spacing toward systems that improve light interception, enable easier mechanisation, and make more efficient use of land. At the same time, niche products such as finger limes and blood oranges are gaining interest. While still relatively small in scale, these “culinary curiosity” fruits offer growers an opportunity to diversify into high-value, specialty markets.
Looking ahead
Over the past four to five years, we’ve collaborated with New Zealand Fruit Tree Company, an IP-focused business, to import new citrus varieties into New Zealand. Taruheru Nursery played a major role through quarantine propagation and establishing one of New Zealand’s first indoor nursery repository blocks.
These new varieties create exciting opportunities for New Zealand growers. The first commercial release is the Eureka seedless lemon.
New Zealand citrus has prime potential to position ‘New Zealand Grown’ as a premium, high-safety, sustainable brand in Southeast Asia and beyond. The sector’s future depends on stronger collaboration between researchers, nursery propagators, and commercial growers to translate innovation into long-term returns.
Upcoming Events
November Citrus News ’25
19th November, 2025
A warm welcome to Citrus NZ’s new chair, exporter updates and recent activity for CNZ.
Read more
September Citrus News ’25
08th September, 2025
Next week we look forward to hosting citrus growers in Gisborne for our AGM, workshop and Industry Awards Night
Read more
July Citrus News ’25
10th July, 2025
In this edition- launch of our Industry Awards Night, AGM date and our On-Orchard Workshop in September!
Read more