Te Mata Mushrooms move an "opportunity" for Central Hawke's Bay
Te Mata Mushrooms' relocation from Havelock North to Central Hawke's Bay has been welcomed by the district's council, which has also promised to support as many affected workers as possible.
Last week, the company announced its plan to shut down the 50-year-old Brookvale facility as it was no longer fit for purpose under the current regulatory regime and with the pressures caused by urban encroachment on established agricultural production.
Mayor Alex Walker, who has been re-elected unopposed in this year's local body elections, says the council has been supportive of Te Mata Mushrooms’ plans since first approached in 2019 and again in 2022, providing a letter of support alongside a commitment of funding from central government’s Kānoa – Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit.
“Te Mata Mushrooms’ proposed investment in Tamatea–Central Hawke’s Bay supports our economic development objectives for the district, including a focus on land diversification, innovation and a shift from a volume to value economy."
She also acknowledged the personal cost for workers, including some in Central Hawke's Bay who stand to lose their jobs due to the move.
“However, it’s really unfortunate to hear of job losses associated with this decision, and we’d encourage any affected Central Hawke’s Bay residents to get in contact with our local Mayors' Taskforce for Jobs team."
Council has also asked Te Mata Mushrooms to commit to a step-change in its engagement with the Takapau community and Manawhenua and to ensure the community is kept informed throughout the consenting process and development of their state-of-the-art facility in the district, quite different to their Havelock North premises.
“Our district and region are growing, and we’re always pleased to see new opportunities for our people. We’re delighted to see business identify Central Hawke’s Bay as a place they want to be.
"We also want to be sure we’re going through the right processes for our people, our land, and our environment, so we can take up key opportunities that will bring prosperity to our district.”
Affected employees in Central Hawke’s Bay needing support are encouraged to contact Central Hawke’s Bay Mayors Taskforce for Jobs team on 027 2063 020 or by emailing mtfj.employment@chbdc.govt.nz.
