Tom Lane
Kiwifruit confidence reaches new heights
Confidence in New Zealand’s kiwifruit industry has rarely been stronger, with the latest Zespri licence releases attracting extraordinary demand and delivering record-breaking prices.
The 2026 licence auctions saw growers competing fiercely for opportunities to expand production, reinforcing the industry’s position as one of New Zealand’s most profitable and sought-after horticultural sectors.
The standout result came from the latest SunGold (Gold3) licence release. Zespri offered 400 hectares to growers, however demand significantly exceeded supply. The opening auction round was oversubscribed by 298 hectares, meaning growers were collectively seeking almost 700 hectares of licence when only 400 hectares were available. Following the auction process, 416.78 hectares were ultimately allocated at a record price of $684,000 per hectare.
Equally impressive was the inaugural commercial release of Red80 licences. Just 50 hectares were made available in the unrestricted pool, yet growers submitted bids for an additional 415 hectares beyond what was offered. In simple terms, demand exceeded supply by more than eight times. The final unrestricted licences sold for $457,000 per hectare and were secured by 22 successful growers.
An additional 50 hectares of Red80 licences were made available to existing Red19 growers wishing to convert their orchards, attracting a final licence value of $70,000 per hectare.
Collectively, the 2026 licence releases are expected to generate approximately $311 million for the industry, a significant increase from the $217 million generated through licence sales the previous year.
Behind these numbers lies a simple story: growers are backing the future of kiwifruit.
“Strong international demand, expanding global markets, excellent grower returns, and confidence in Zespri’s premium branding continue to drive investment.”
Strong international demand, expanding global markets, excellent grower returns, and confidence in Zespri’s premium branding continue to drive investment. Growers are prepared to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars per hectare before a single vine is planted, demonstrating remarkable confidence in the long-term profitability of the sector.
The impact extends well beyond orchard gates. Successful horticulture supports local contractors, transport operators, packhouses, service businesses, rural communities, and the wider regional economy. It also contributes positively to demand for suitable horticultural land and properties with reliable water resources and development potential.
For the Gisborne region, the latest licence results provide another encouraging signal. Confidence remains high, investment is flowing, and growers are actively positioning themselves for future growth.
When growers are willing to pay $684,000 per hectare simply for the right to plant a crop, it sends a powerful message about where they believe the industry is heading.
The future of New Zealand kiwifruit appears bright, and the latest licence results suggest growers are determined to be part of that journey.
Tom Lane Rural & Lifestyle Sales Consultant
Record 1st June farm settlements for Property Brokers
As we move through 2026, the rural property market is showing a level of confidence not seen since before the global fi nancial crisis. Improving returns, healthier balance sheets, and a stronger commodity cycle are giving farmers and growers the confi dence to make long-term decisions again.
Across much of the country, farming businesses are entering the new season in a signifi cantly stronger position than they were just a few years ago. Improved profitability is allowing debt to be reduced, investment plans to be reconsidered, and succession conversations to move forward with greater certainty. After several years of volatility, there is a growing sense that the fundamentals are once again working in favour of New Zealand’s primary sector.
With farmgate returns improving and agri-bank lending available at sensible levels, the market is benefiting from some of the strongest conditions we have seen in years. While every farming sector faces its own challenges, there is broad confi dence in the longterm outlook for New Zealand agriculture and the role it continues to play in the country’s economic success.
That confidence is not simply refl ected in conversations around the kitchen table. It is showing up in real market activity. We recently reviewed Property Brokers’ farm settlements around the traditional 1 June dairy settlement period, covering 28 May to 5 June.
During that period, we settled 128 farms worth $684 million, compared to 60 farms worth $368 million over the same period last year. In all my years in the industry, I can’t recall seeing a yearonyear shift of this magnitude.
The dairy sector has been a major driver of this activity, accounting for around 80% of our 1 June settlements and representing approximately $550 million in settled sales. Strong commodity prices, improving profi tability, and renewed confi dence in future earnings are clearly translating into buying and selling decisions.
What is particularly encouraging is that this activity is not limited to established operators. Much is said about how diffi cult it has become for the next generation to get onto the property ladder. While those challenges are real, it has been particularly pleasing to see 23 new-to-farm ownership transactions completed this season. For me, that’s one of the most encouraging indicators in the market and a reminder that opportunities still exist for people looking to build a future in the rural sector.
The ability for new entrants to establish themselves remains critical to the long-term health of rural New Zealand. Fresh energy, new ideas and the willingness to invest in farming businesses all contribute to the ongoing strength of our communities and industries.
Looking ahead, we believe opportunities are likely to continue into next season, particularly across the sheep and beef sector as returns improve and confidence in the forward outlook strengthens. While markets will always experience cycles, the current environment is providing many farmers with options that simply weren’t available a few years ago.
For farmers looking to grow, opportunities are rarely found by standing still. Sometimes it pays to get out, have a look around and explore what might be possible beyond your own boundary fence. Whether that means expanding an existing operation, restructuring assets, or simply gaining a better understanding of what’s happening in your local market, there is real value in keeping an open mind.
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling or simply seeking a second opinion on your options, our True Team is here to help with practical advice, local knowledge and a long-term view of the market.
Tom Lane Rural & Lifestyle Sales Consultant
Waerenga a hika 363 Matawai Road
A-Class Water
• 22.53ha (more or less)
• Water rights (subject to consent)
• Ripe for permanent horticulture
• Gisborne CBD 10 km
Tender
5 2
Tender closes 4.00pm, Thu 2nd Jul, 2026 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 66 Reads Quay, Gisborne View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIR206132
Having secured A-class water rights for this property (subject to consent), it makes it ideal for horticulture development. Offering scope and scale with 22.53 ha spread over two titles.
This well shaped property has good road frontage, fertile soils and a prime location. Great access off SH 2 and only minutes from Makaraka Village. Owners are open to a long settlement. For sale plus GST (if any).
Ngatapa 2133A Wharekopae Road Auction
Lifestyle living in Ngatapa
• 3.3ha (more or less)
• Park like grounds
• He shed/she shed
• Gisborne CBD 32 km
3 1 2
Auction 12.00pm, Thu 16th Jul, 2026, (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 66 Reads Quay, Gisborne View By appointment
Web pb.co.nz/GIL228753
Escape to your own peaceful sanctuary. Set amongst stunning park-like grounds, this immaculately presented three-bedroom cottage offers the perfect blend of comfort, character and lifestyle.
There's room to graze a few animals, established grounds to enjoy, and excellent garaging for all the essentials. A real standout is the "he-shed" or "she-shed", currently an inspiring creative retreat with endless possibilities. Just minutes from the renowned Eastwoodhill Arboretum, this is the lifestyle dream you've been searching for.
Muriwai 1343 Wharerata Road
Finishing opportunity
• 166 ha (more or less)
• Finishing & cropping
• Two titles
• Reticulated water
For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIR218400
This large expanse of high-quality finishing country is ideal to complement an existing breeding operation or operate as a standalone unit. Over the years it has been utilised as a cropping operation and sheep and beef finishing unit.
Infrastructure includes a small wool shed and two sets of yards, supporting efficient stock management. Located within close proximity to the Matawhero saleyards, this is a genuine opportunity to secure a productive finishing block of scale and quality that is seldom available. For sale plus GST (if any).
Nuhaka 2839 State Highway 2
Cropping, finishing or lifestyle, you choose
• 24.27 hectares (more or less)
• Good road access
• Excellent cropping and finishing opportunity
• Build your dream home
If you're chasing a proven, no-nonsense block that simply performs, this one deserves your attention. This well-established Nuhaka property has built a strong reputation as a reliable maize growing unit.
The land itself is the real strength here – flat, fertile, and consistent. It’s the kind of ground that gives you confidence year in, year out, backed by a history of solid yields. Beyond cropping, this block is equally well suited as a finishing block, For sale plus GST (if any)
Matawhero 19 Kemp Road
Better living starts here
• 6.10 hectares (more or less)
• 3 bay shed
• Established citrus orchard
• Gisborne CBD 9 km
4 2 2 For Sale Buyers $1,999,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL226572
This beautifully established lifestyle property delivers the space, privacy and versatility you are searching for. The thoughtfully designed home offers four bedrooms, and multiple living spaces. Outside, the property impressively offers ample parking, a productive citrus orchard circa 4 hectares, and grazing whether for the ponies or a few sheep.
A quality lifestyle opportunity combining comfort, functionality and location in one very appealing package. For sale plus GST (if any).
Patutahi 194 Kaimoe Road
Villa on Kaimoe
• 1 hectare (more or less)
• Character villa with charm
• Double garage + utility spaces
• 2 paddocks perfect for ponies
2 1 1 2 For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL225108
Full of charm, sunshine, and future potential, this opportunity offers the perfect chance to escape town while remaining within an easy commute to Gisborne and walking distance to Ngatapa Rugby and Associated Sports Club.
Set on the edge of the Patutahi Village, the classic two-bedroom villa has expansive decking, creating the perfect place to relax in the sun or entertain family and friends. With this ideal setting and the perfect amount of room for pets or ponies, your country dreams start here.
Wainui 153 Wheatstone Road
They want it SOLD
• 4ha (more or less)
• Modern 2018-built home
• Spectacular views
• Close to town & beaches
3 2 2 For Sale $1,199,000 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL217380
The bags are packed, the decision is made, and this premium Wheatstone Road property is looking for new owners. This 2018-built home commands breathtaking panoramic views. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing and large sliding doors floods the interior with natural light and invites the outdoor in.
The well-considered layout features a master suite with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, supported by openplan living anchored by a modern kitchen. Complete with double garage, chicken coop, garden shed and easy-care land suitable for pets or a few stock - this is the lifestyle living that’s calling.
Muriwai 55 Harrington Road
Valley views
• 3.96 ha (more or less)
• Garage/workshop
• Expansive views
• Mandarin grove
3 1 2 For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL225394
Positioned on an elevated site in the foothills of Taurau Valley, the family home commands expansive views across the valley out towards the bay. The wrap around deck offers a great spot to sit back and enjoy the outlook. Inside you have 3 bedrooms plus two other utility rooms which adds options like working from home.
Another feature is the internal access double garaging plus a workshop. Set on just under four hectares, the property also includes a small citrus grove with mandarins. All this only 20 km from Gisborne.
Matawhero 121 Bell Road
Price reduction, great value
• 4.25ha of quality lifestyle land
• Established grounds
• Extensive shedding and hardstand area
• Ideal for horses, ponies and all equestrian pursuits
3 1 1 For Sale Buyers $1,449,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL219189
Set on 4.25 hectares in the heart of sought-after Matawhero, this versatile property offers the perfect blend of country living, space and opportunity.
The real bonus – an impressive collection of sheds, yards and hardstand areas that open the door to countless possibilities. Whether you're looking for a base for horses, a place to rear calves, room for livestock, storage for machinery and toys, or simply space for the family to enjoy the lifestyle living, this property delivers. For sale plus GST (if any).
Makaraka 136A Main Road
You are nuts not to buy it
• 5.20 ha (more or less)
• Beautiful family home
• Park-like grounds
• Great location
3 3 2
For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIL222488
Tucked away down a long driveway and set well back from the road, this beautifully maintained 5.2-hectare lifestyle property offers privacy, space and exceptional convenience just minutes from town.
Built in 1998, the home features 3 bedrooms plus, a spacious open-plan lounge, and a sunny conservatory that overlooks the old racecourse. The flat, fertile park like grounds provide outstanding versatility for lifestyle living. For sale plus GST (if any).
Makaraka Kiwi Street
Investors, speculators, land bankers
• 2.26ha (more or less)
• Zoned Rural Residential
• Subdividable
• Geo tech report
Located in the heart of Makaraka, this property is full of up side and great value, keep it to yourself and develop it into your own lifestyle property or take advantage of the zoning and identified building platforms to subdivide and develop.
Plans and pricing for new a build available, it is more than a citrus orchard, it is an opportunity with location and appeal. For sale plus GST (if any).
Tiniroto 1169 Ruakaka Road
Awapiko Station
• 564 ha (more or less)
• Farming and hunting
• Deer unit
• Multiple dwellings
4 2
For Sale $3,650,000 + GST (if any)
View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIR213017
Awapiko Station presents an exciting opportunity in the renowned farming district of Tiniroto, located approximately 63 kilometres from Gisborne. Spanning just over 560 hectares, the property offers a versatile mix of productive grazing land and bush.
The current owners have undertaken a variety of improvement works in their short tenure including the recently added deer unit. Whether you are looking for an entry level farm, a private hunting block or recreational property, Awapiko ticks all the boxes. For sale plus GST (if any).
For a no bull approach to real estate
When it comes to selling your farm, orchard or lifestyle property, Tom Lane delivers results. For your unfair advantage Call 027 TOM LANE
