Kono signs mussel deal with Nga¯i Tahu
One of the largest employers in the top of the south has boosted business with 15 new mussel farms in a deal with Nga¯i Tahu Seafood.
Kono has acquired Nga¯i Tahu’s greenshell mussel assets, which includes the lease of seven farms in the Marlborough Sounds, two in Tasman Bay, and six in Golden Bay and Collingwood.
The agreement also includes two marine farming boats and aquaculture equipment, and has doubled the company’s access to spat-catching areas where juvenile mussels are caught.
Kono chief executive Rachel Taulelei said the deal meant the company had ‘‘increased certainty of supply’’ and a ‘‘better foundation from which to plan for future growth’’.
‘‘Having more water space to supplement our existing farms gives us alternate harvest areas,’’ Taulelei said.
’’We have already started this season of mussel processing on a positive note and the deal with Nga¯i Tahu gives us a huge boost for this season and beyond.’’
Taulelei would not reveal the exact location of the farms or the spat-catching areas, citing commercial sensitivity.
Kono, owned by Nelson-based Wakatu, farmed more than 530 hectares or land and sea, and produced Annies fruit bars, Tohu and Aronui wines, Tutu¯ cider, apples, pears, kiwifruit and hops, exporting to more than 25 countries.
The company employed more than 400 staff.
The new deal meant new staff would be needed, including deckhands to work on the boats in the Marlborough Sounds and Golden Bay, and mussel openers, machine operators and packers to work in the Riverlands factory, near Blenheim.
‘‘We are already one of the largest employers in the top of the South Island, and our expanded business will continue to provide employment opportunities and support for the local economy,’’ Taulelei said.
The investment in greenshell mussel farming was a boost for business in line with Kono’s ethos of sustainability and kaitiakitanga, she said.
‘‘Greenshell mussels are one of the most sustainable seafood products in the world.
‘‘Kaitiakitanga, taking care of the environment, is at the core of everything that we do. Our land and water are indivisible, they have to be well for our people to be well. Love for the land and respect for the sea is paramount.’’
Nga¯i Tahu Seafood has been approached for comment.