Hawke’s Bay’s horticulture industry is set to benefit from the Government’s latest science and investment announcements, the MP for Tukituki Catherine Wedd says.

On Thursday, the Government announced reforms to the science sector, which include establishing “Invest New Zealand”, an agency the Government says will increase foreign direct investment to help the Government’s goal of doubling exports by 2034.

“Our Government has announced the largest reset of the New Zealand science system in more than 30 years, which will boost the economy and benefit our primary industries,” Wedd said.

“Invest New Zealand” will focus on attracting greater investment into innovative activities in existing sectors, as well as those with potential to raise productivity and drive economic growth.

It will also be tasked with attracting more skilled professionals to New Zealand.

“Our primary industries are the backbone of our region’s economy. We need our system to be future-focused and working on the science and innovation that is most important for New Zealand, and particularly Hawke’s Bay.”

The Ministry for Primary Industries' latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report shows horticulture surpassing forestry for the first time as the third-largest export sector.

Wedd said this was amazing news for the region and shows the resilience of its growers.

“Against the odds, [Hawke’s Bay growers] have persevered through the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and are establishing themselves as the rising stars of the region – the fruit bowl of New Zealand.”

The report also showed the apple industry surpassing a billion dollars for the first time.

The reforms will “maximise the value” of the $1.2 billion per year the Government puts into science funding, according to Wedd, with hopes of creating a more dynamic system that can respond to priorities and keep pace with technological advances.

“In spite of significantly being impacted by Covid-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle, our apple and pear industry has still achieved positive GDP and employment growth over the decade.

“Our latest science and innovation announcements will support continued growth in Hawke’s Bay.”