Air New Zealand supports holiday exports with cherries and lamb deliveries

Cherries are particularly popular in Asia during the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. With 80% of New Zealand's cherry crop exported during this period, Air New Zealand aims to ensure no cherry is left behind. The airline will facilitate the movement of up to one million kilograms of cherries to major export markets including Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and smaller shipments to North America. Through partnerships with other airlines, cherries also reach Vietnam.

Besides cherries, Air New Zealand Cargo collaborates with farmers to transport grass-fed meat for Christmas markets worldwide. In November alone, around 120,000 kilograms of lamb and beef were shipped to destinations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Zurich.

Seafood remains another top commodity this Christmas season. Approximately 1.3 billion kilograms are annually exported across the Tasman Sea to Australia. Salmon, tuna, and shellfish are among the seafood delicacies being transported.

Dunne concluded by saying: "Whether it's lamb for a roast, cherries for a celebration or seafood for a summer feast; it's a privilege to partner with Kiwi exporters to deliver on our purpose of connecting Kiwi and the products they produce to the world."