30979 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister of Agriculture

30979 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister of Agriculture: What assessment, if any, has been undertaken of the ability of Hawke's Bay vegetable growers to continue operating until the feasibility study is completed, or any processing solution is implemented?

Hon Todd McClay: The Hawke’s Bay growers’ group has not asked for anything from the Government in relation to a potential purchase of the McCain Foods vegetable processing site in Hastings. The Government is, however, supporting work coordinated by the local councils assisting the growers, and has committed $50,000 to the first stage of a feasibility study to assess what is required for a grower-led purchase of the site to be commercially viable. My officials remain in close contact with growers including to provide their expertise where required.