SEEKA – “We expect production to increase to around 450 tonnes over the next few years”

Seeka is one of New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit packers and also has horticultural production in Bunbartha, Victoria, Australia. Seeka Australia has 250 hectares in production and is one of the country’s largest producers of Hayward kiwifruit and Nashi pears, alongside European pears and plums.

Jujubes
The company also grows jujubes at its Bunbartha orchards. The first blocks were planted in 2021, with the first commercial harvest taking place in 2022.

“We have 16 hectares in production or coming into production at our Bunbartha orchards, and we are learning about how to grow it and deliver it to our customers in tip-top condition,” said Jonathan Van Popering, General Manager – Operations and Orchard. “We produced 90 tonnes during the 2026 season and expect production to increase to around 450 tonnes over the next few years as the plantings mature, and we are very excited by the prospects in the category.”

The jujube harvest and packing season in Bunbartha generally runs from mid-April until the end of May, depending on fruit maturity.

Challenging season
“This year was different with the challenges of a very hot summer and little rainfall, but overall we are happy with the results,” Jonathan said. “Our volumes will continue to increase as the plantings mature, and we will continue to assess their commercialisation before expanding further.

“The varieties we grow are proving to be well suited to the climate in the Goulburn Valley and have proven their commercial worth so far. Jujubes are currently popular in Australia, primarily within Asian and Middle Eastern communities, where the fruit is native. We hope consumer education will broaden demand over time. We have invested in new handling equipment including drying machines to enable us to deliver a product the market is looking for.”

Seeka does not currently export jujubes. However, the company is in discussions with customers in international markets where export pathways are available for Australian-grown jujubes and promotes the category at trade fairs including Asia Fruit Logistica.

For more information:
Jonathan Van Popering
Seeka
Tel: +61 4 2980 1806
jonathan.vanpopering@seekaaustralia.com.au
www.seeka.co.nz/seeka-australiaPublication date: Fri 24 Jul 2026

© FreshPlaza.com / Nichola McGregor