New venison plant signals confidence
The opening of the Alliance Group’s new $15.9 million venison plant comes at a great time for producers who are enjoying buoyant returns for their produce and a promising future. Diane Bishop reports.
Southland deer farmers are enjoying buoyant returns for venison and the good times look set to continue.
The opening of Alliance’s new $15.9 million venison plant at Lorneville last week was another strong vote of confidence in a sector, which has had its fair share of ups and downs over the years.
New Zealand Deer Farmers Association chairman John Somerville said he was thrilled there was now another deer processing plant in Southland. ‘’It’s excellent.
‘’I congratulate Alliance on building this world leading venison plant,’’ Somerville said.
More than 100 people attended the opening of the venison plant including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor, National MP Sarah Dowie and Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt.
Some of the region’s deer farmers also attended.
Ardern, who unveiled a plaque at the opening, was presented with two sheepskin rugs and a soft toy for her young daughter Neve.
Guests dined on Pure South venison for afternoon tea which had been cooked by Alliance corporate chef Graham Hawkes.
The plant, which started processing in September, includes improved handling facilities, enhanced configuration, a larger slaughter board, wider boning room and bigger offal area than Alliance’s former Makarewa plant in Southland.
The plant employs about 70 people when operating at peak capacity.
‘‘This plant shows how serious we are about the New Zealand deer industry. ‘’It ensures we have world-class modern facilities, reflecting our position as a leading and innovative processor.’’ - Alliance chief executive David Surveyor.