KVH is proposing a small increase to the biosecurity levy to ensure we can continue protecting your orchard and the wider kiwifruit industry from exotic pests and diseases.

Levy rates have remained stable for several seasons, while the cost of maintaining strong biosecurity readiness and response has increased, clearly demonstrated with five biosecurity responses in the last two years. The proposed change is about maintaining the level of protection growers rely on today.

The proposed biosecurity levy increase is 0.2c, bringing the levy for the 2027-28 financial year to 1c per tray (the Pathway Management Plan levy will remain unchanged at 0.6c per tray).

Even with the increase, the impact at an individual grower level is expected to remain small, while collectively it ensures we can respond quickly and effectively to threats. A fruit fly detection in Te Puke could cost up to $700 million in lost market access - making robust biosecurity critical.

You’ll find opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback ahead of the AGM on our dedicated web page, with full details of the proposal, including what your levy delivers, why the change is needed, and why continued biosecurity protection is important.

KVH will also be out in the regions over the coming weeks to talk through the proposal and answer questions - we encourage you to come along to the presentations, hosted by Chief Executive Leanne Stewart and look forward to seeing you to discuss the proposal.

Look out for an email from KVH too, with reminder details of the meeting nearest to you.

The feedback you provide will directly shape what is put forward for voting at the AGM and we look forward to discussing it with you.