Kiwifruit Market Insights June 2026

Horticulture property market in 60 seconds

Strong orchard returns underpin land values

Strong kiwifruit returns continue to support confidence across the horticulture sector, with Zespri’s initial 2026/27 guidance reinforcing firm orchard values in established growing regions, particularly for high-performing assets with scale and strong production history.

Premium varieties continuing to widen the value gap

RubyRed expansion into new international markets and continued demand for SunGold are reinforcing stronger pricing for premium gold and red orchards.

Freight and supply chain risks persist

Global freight and shipping pressures remain a consideration for the sector, with buyers continuing to favour orchards offering efficient logistics access, modern infrastructure and proximity to packhouses. For example, the lack of certainty over roading access is an impediment to investor confidence in the Gisborne region which relies heavily upon post harvest processing on the BOP side of the Waioweka Gorge road, frequently subject to closure.

Licence availability shaping development demand

Zespri’s 2026 licence releases and continued expansion of SunGold and RubyRed production are driving strong demand for suitable development land, while also limiting the availability of quality conversion properties coming to market.

Capital targeting proven growing districts

Investor activity remains concentrated in established kiwifruit regions where infrastructure, labour access and post-harvest capability support scalable production, continuing to constrain the availability of quality orchard assets in tightly held locations.

IP protections support long-term confidence

Proposed amendments to the Plant Variety Rights Act are expected to strengthen long-term confidence across the kiwifruit sector by supporting innovation, protecting premium varietals and underpinning future orchard investment and values. The extension to rights by at least five years has given investors a longer runway to see a return on their significant licence investments.