With over 70% of New Zealand’s garlic imported each year, Manawatū’s fertile soils and strong distribution networks present a clear opportunity to diversify land use and grow premium local product.

With New Zealand producing over 77,000 tonnes of processed sweetcorn each year, and Manawatū contributing a small share of this, there’s clear room to grow. Our soil and climate offers the foundations for high yield and premium quality crops with opportunities across fresh, processed and export markets.

Global demand for green beans is rising, with consumption forecast to hit 26.3 million tonnes by 2030. New Zealand already exports processed beans, but opportunities exist to expand fresh production, especially in Manawatū where soils and crop rotation systems could support premium yields.

New Zealand produces over 58,000 tonnes of processed peas each year, with Manawatū contributing around 280 hectares to the national total. While frozen peas dominate the domestic market, there is growing potential for fresh snow peas, sugar snaps, and garden peas to reach both local and high value Asia Pacific markets.

Manawatū’s free-draining soils and favourable climate make it a strong contender for kiwifruit production. With Zespri signalling expansion into new regions, and demand for both green and organic varieties on the rise, local growers have the chance to diversify and future proof their land.