ORANGE COUNTY, CA - Zespri is a global company on the move. The kiwifruit giant, with unique origins in New Zealand, recently invited local media and the Newport Beach Mayor to celebrate the opening of its North American headquarters in Newport Beach, complete with a traditional Maori ceremony.
“The traditional Maori ceremony originates from New Zealand’s indigenous people,” Ben Hughes, Zespri’s Regional Market Manager for the Americas, in a company release. “Our guests were able to view prayers and blessings of the wooden carving, unveiled by James Tapiata. He explained the cultural significance and symbolism of the carving.”
Zespri CEO, Lain Jager, and Director, Bruce Cameron, welcomed the New Zealand Ambassador to the United States, the honorable Tim Groser, along with other distinguished representatives, to the unique celebration. Watch an excerpt from the ceremony below.
The beautiful Maori carving unveiled at the ceremony is representative of the prosperity and growth of the Zespri office, and its kiwifruit. The Delegation of Maori growers visited the office from New Zealand to participate in the blessing.
The ceremony came to a close with Newport Beach City Mayor Kevin Muldoon presenting Zespri with the Newport Beach City Proclamation. The New Zealand Ambassador to the U.S. also highlighted Zespri’s global success, the importance of free trade, and the amazing opportunity the U.S. offers.
Since opening the office, Zespri has made great strides in the U.S. market, with growth driven by the tropical, sweet SunGold variety of kiwifruit. Also amplifying the success of its U.S. presence are the Zespri Market Development Managers, who work directly with key retailers, and have helped expand distribution across the country, which in turn supports the value returns to the New Zealand growers.
The company has also seen great success from its recently launched “Celebrate the Sungold” campaign, highlighting a collaboration with famous music duo, Matt and Kim.
As the Zespri presence continues to grow across the globe, make sure to stay tuned to AndNowUKnow.
