Seeka to invest $15.5 million in Gisborne packhouse and coolstore expansion

Seeka Limited has secured approval to invest approximately $15.5 million in a new packhouse and coolstore facility in the Gisborne region of New Zealand, following a tenancy agreement with Gisborne District Council. The project will build on the company's existing Gisborne operations to add produce handling and cold storage capacity for local growers.

The new facility is designed to function as a regional produce hub serving Gisborne and the wider East Coast. It will provide growers with local packing, coolstore, and operational infrastructure, enabling fruit to be packed and stored within the region before shipment to market. The project is expected to create approximately five permanent positions and up to 70 seasonal and casual roles.

Seeka Chief Executive Michael Franks stated that the investment reflects the company's plans for the Gisborne region and its growers, noting that it will provide infrastructure supporting growers and horticultural production, create jobs, support local economic activity, and help keep fruit handling and storage closer to where produce is grown.

The facility is also intended to support increased utilisation of Eastland Port and regional export activity, while growing kiwifruit handling capability to keep pace with rising production. By locating packing and storage closer to the orchards, the investment aims to reduce the impact of transport route disruptions and provide resilience during adverse weather events, in line with Seeka's strategy of investing in assets in the regions where crops are produced.

During the 2026 season, Seeka handled approximately 2.5 million trays of SunGold kiwifruit from the region, alongside a growing volume of RubyRed kiwifruit, persimmons, and citrus.

The company recently reported a record six-month profit, reduced debt, and increased full-year earnings guidance, while continuing to invest in automation, operational capability, and infrastructure across the business.

Source: Seeka. Contact: Michael Franks, +64 21 356 516, www.seeka.co.nz