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October 08, 2025
Māori Kiwifruit Growers Make Breakthrough in UAE Market
Atereano Mateariki
Posted On October 8, 2025
Download AudioA recent trip to the United Arab Emirates has proven fruitful for Māori Kiwifruit Growers Ltd, as their new export initiative gains traction in the Middle Eastern market.
Representing 70 orchards across Aotearoa, the group partnered with Mr. Apple, Zespri, and accompanied with Te Arikinui Kuini Ngawai hono i te pō, to launch a major promotion in the UAE.
Chairman Geoff Rolleston says the goal is to boost both sales and the profile of Māori-grown produce.
“…while we were up there last week, our roopū were able to go into the stores, because our fruit that’s participating in the promotion is already up there… Our kiwifruit and our apples were in the most prominent part of the veggie areas within these stores. The satisfying piece was, when we walked into these areas, they were definitely in the most prominent part of the shop,” says Rolleston.
The current consignment is valued at around $1.2 million, with hopes the campaign will open doors to even greater opportunities.
“This has given us a huge opportunity to expand into other markets, and we are targeting other markets as well. So yep, the world’s our oyster…” says Rolleston.
With strong branding and growing international interest, Māori kiwifruit growers are optimistic about expanding their global footprint.
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