Govt nurturing New Zealand’s seed supply chain

Hawke’s Bay’s arable sector is set to benefit from a $3 million Regional Infrastructure Fund loan for a new grower-led seed cleaning, processing and storage facility in Central Hawke’s Bay, Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says. “Currently, much of the seed grown in Hawke's Bay that requires specialist cleaning and processing is sent outside the region, including to as far away as Canterbury, before it can be sold domestically or exported. This adds cost, creates inefficiencies, and reduces returns for local growers” Mr Patterson says. Previous government investment in 2023 supported development of a seed-drying facility, with the aim of creating high-value cropping opportunities in the region. “This new investment builds on that foundation by bringing the full seed value chain together in one location, from drying and cleaning through to processing and storage. “It reduces the need to transport seed outside the region for processing, meaning growers can retain more value locally while improving efficiency and resilience across the sector. “The project positions Hawke’s Bay as a key hub for high-value seed production and will help support future growth in the

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