In 2022 we made a submission to the Ministry for the Environment on the proposed Te Tātai utu on ngā tukunga ahuwhenua | Pricing Agricultural Emissions.
Our submission supported He Waka Eke Noa farm‑level levy approach while emphasising the need for a workable, fair system that reflected the kiwifruit industry’s low emissions profile and strong climate‑action commitments.
We outlined that most growers would face minimal direct cost impacts, but warned that wider socio‑economic effects, such as labour shifts and community change, must be carefully managed. Key points included the need for:
- transitional support,
- clearer definitions for GST‑registered business owners,
- alignment with freshwater and biodiversity policy
- recognition of sequestration from kiwifruit systems once industry research is complete.
We also stressed that emissions policy must integrate with market‑driven sustainability requirements and support growers to adapt while continuing to contribute to regional economies.
In 2024, the Government decided not to introduce an on-farm emissions pricing system.
