The Government is supporting Hawke’s Bay growers to investigate what would be required for a successful farmer-led purchase of the McCain Foods’ vegetable processing site in Hastings.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has met with growers, local MPs Katie Nimon, Catherine Wedd and Minister Mike Butterick, as well as mayors from the region.
This week, MPI officials from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) also visited to speak to those on the ground and gather more information.
The Government is committing NZD 50,000 for the first stage of a feasibility study to assess what is required for a grower-led purchase of the site to be commercially viable.
McClay added he is getting regular updates on the situation.
“I know this is a difficult time for the more than 100 Hawke’s Bay growers impacted by the site’s closure and the rural communities they belong to," he said.
“I’ve asked my officials to remain in close contact with growers and to provide their expertise where required.”
More local news here
