• We leverage and utilise our relationships to advocate for and advance the horticulture sector's strategic priorities. 

  • We advocate for the investment required to ensure our products are able to get to markets.

  • We ensure a collective long-term vision for horticulture in Tairawhiti and to support the implementation of strategic initiatives.

  • We seek the best operating conditions for horticulture in the areas of environment, biosecurity, food safety, crop protection and labour.

  • We promote awareness of newly implemented policies, regulations, requirements, and best practices to growers and rural professionals.

  • We enable sector-wide information sharing, networking, and talent attraction and development.

  • We are attracting and developing people, creating opportunities for training and education, supporting safer workplaces and developing our future leaders.

  • We celebrate our successes and elevate support for our growers.

Being active for over 65 years the newly named Tairawhiti Growers Association encompasses pan horticulture within the region.

At the beginning of 2024 the committee led a whole new strategic plan in reaction to Cyclone Gabrielle to ensure the industry remains resilient and relevant into the future. The morale between the group is at an all time high as we tackle the future together.

We have been advocating for horticulture in our region since 1957.

 2025 Actions

  1. Grower Breakfast Event

  2. Water Focus

  3. Establish Young Grower Forum

  4. Young Grower of the Year Competition

  5. Quarterly Regional Insights

Our story began in 1957 when a group of likeminded growers joined forces as Gisborne Produce Growers. The application for incorporation was signed on 17th December in the same year,

The entity was set up to promote the growing, selling and marketing of produce in the region. Tairawhiti is one of the few remaining organisations still operating in this way. The vibrancy of the volunteer commitee members continues to this day

The TGA Committee in 2025:

Tim Tietjen (Chair)

Wayne Hall (Deputy Chair)

Liarna White (Treasurer)

Tessa Rodden (Secretary)

Joshua Rowe (Future Grower Engagement Director)

Calvin Gedye (Policy & Advocacy Director)

Dean Davies (Committee Member)

Elliot Callender (Committee Member))

Scott Wilson (Committee Member)

Karen Fenn (TT Representative)

Pete Jarratt (BDO Representative)