From state–of-the-art growing and harvesting facilities and premium new products, to cutting-edge technology, research, and equipment, PMA Fresh Connections delegates will experience a diverse and fascinating look at all stages of fresh produce production when the post-conference tour heads to the Pukekohe region south of Auckland. 

Michael Worthington, CEO of PMA Australia-New Zealand, says the PMA Fresh Connections tours are always popular with delegates but he is particularly inspired by this year's tours. ”We always have a tour of leading retail outlets, which will be the day before the conference, but this year we also wanted to showcase some of New Zealand’s leaders in fresh produce," he said. "We will be offering this tour the day immediately after the conference- Friday 27th June- which will take delegates to the Pukekohe area to see some truly world-class operations. It will provide delegates with an unrivalled opportunity to connect what they would have heard and learnt at the conference and trade show with real-life examples.” 

The tour will begin with a visit to Compac Sorting Equipment where tour-goers will experience some of their most innovative technology first hand - including a sneak peak at some prototypes not yet to market! Next, a visit to Snap Fresh Foods growing operations in Manukau will enable delegates to experience the innovative practices involved in planting and harvesting products such as micro greens, baby lettuce, and well-known brand Vital Vegetables; while gaining an understanding of the complexities of growing and harvesting these specialised products. 

The next stop will be at AS Wilcox & Sons to experience both their growing and pack house operations, while gaining insight into how innovation impacts each part of their business. Rounding out the tour will be a visit to the Plant & Food Research facility in Auckland. Providing scientific research and development that adds value to fruit, vegetable, crop and food products, Plant & Food Research supports the sustainable production of high quality produce that earns a premium in international markets, as well as driving the design and development of new and novel functional foods that offer benefits to human health and wellbeing. 

Plant & Food Research's Yvonne McDiarmid says it's a fantastic opportunity for delegates to explore the science and technology behind their products that ensures fresh produce delivers the best consumer experience. "Over the last 90 years, Plant & Food Research has built a wide range of experience in understanding fresh produce, from breeding new cultivars and developing sustainable production systems that optimise chemical usage through to identifying the compounds in foods that support health and wellness. The fundamental science behind our research, including understanding consumer preferences and how produce behaves postharvest, helps us deliver, for our industries, premium produce that commands a premium price.” 

Registrations for PMA Fresh Connections are now open. To register, please visit www.pmafreshconnections.com.au