Plant & Food Research (Māori: Rangahau Ahumāra Kai) is a New Zealand Crown Research Institute (CRI). Its purpose is to enhance the value and productivity of New Zealand's horticultural, arable, seafood and food & beverage industries. The interests of the institute are based in horticulture, arable and seafood research, specifically in the areas of sustainable production, bioprotection, elite genetics & intelligent breeding, food and health science and biomaterials.[1][2]
The institute was formed on 1 December 2008 by merging existing CRIs HortResearch and Crop and Food Research.[3] Plant & Food has over 900 staff based at sites throughout New Zealand as well as science and business development staff working in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia.
History
On 1 October 2021, Plant & Food Research commenced an even joint venture with Zespri: the Kiwifruit Breeding Centre.[4][5][6] The research and development centre, based in Te Puke and also operating out of Kerikeri, Motueka and Mt Albert,[7] is focused on improving kiwifruit breeding and cultivation. The initial aims are to develop kiwifruit varieties that are healthier, better tasting, and more sustainable for the environment.[6] Matt Glenn is the inaugural CEO of the centre.[5]
