www.foodtechnology.co.nz 19 FT417 KONO… MOTUEKA Motueka-based Kono, one of New Zealand’s Māori-owned top 100 New Zealand food and drinks companies, has acquired Ngāi Tahu Seafood’s greenshell mussel assets in a move to increase certainty of supply. Kono chief executive Rachel Taulelei says the assets include two purpose-built marine farming vessels and associated aquaculture equipment, the right to lease 15 marine farms in Marlborough Sounds, Tasman Bay, Golden Bay and Collingwood, as well as access to spat-catching areas. “Our mussel-growing and processing business is strong,” Taulelei says. “Having more water space to supplement our existing farms gives us alternate harvest areas, which helps us manage our risk overall. “Our purchase of these assets and lease of related water space is positive for the ongoing growth of the Marlborough region and beyond. We are already one of the largest employers in the top of the South Island, and our expanded business will continue to provide employment opportunities and support for the local economy.” Greenshell mussels are one of the most sustainable seafood products in the world. “Kaitiakitanga, taking care of the environment, is at the core of everything that we do,” Taulelei says. “Our land and water are indivisible, they have to be well for our people to be well. Love for the land and respect for the sea is paramount. “We have already started this season of mussel processing on a positive note and the deal with Ngāi Tahu gives us a huge boost for this season and beyond.” Kono is a Māori-owned company employing more than 400 staff, farming more than 530 hectares of land and sea, and exporting to more than 25 countries. Products include Kono mussels, Annies fruit bars, Tohu and Aronui wines, Tutū cider, apples, pears, kiwifruit and hops. Kono is solely owned by Wakatū Incorporation, based in Nelson. www.kono.co.nz Na tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi. With my basket and yours, we, the people will prosper and be well. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
FT-Annual Directory 2018-eMag
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