Product Offerings
Products:
Apples: Royal Gala, NZ Queen™, Fuji, Braeburn, NZ Rose (Pacific Rose), NZ Beauty, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, GEM™
New variety under license: MAC12 (upcoming)
Mt Erin Group Ltd is a collective of multi-generational, family-owned apple orchards based in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand—one of the country’s most renowned horticultural regions. Operating under the brand Mt Erin Apples, the group specializes in the sustainable production, packing, and export of high-quality apples. With a focus on varietal diversity, orchard-to-market integration, and export consistency, Mt Erin has built a solid reputation in the international apple trade.
Company Overview
Founded to unite a group of experienced apple growers under a shared commitment to excellence, Mt Erin Group Ltd integrates the capabilities of family orchardists, modern packhouses, and an export division (MEG Exports). This synergy allows the company to manage the complete fruit value chain, ensuring quality control, traceability, and customer satisfaction at every step.
The company primarily exports to key Asian and Middle Eastern markets, offering New Zealand-grown apples known for their sweetness, crisp texture, and clean growing environment.
Product Portfolio
Mt Erin produces a diverse portfolio of apple varieties tailored to regional and market preferences:
- Royal Gala – Sweet, crisp, early-season apple
- Fuji – Dense, juicy, and sweet
- Braeburn – Balanced sweet-tart flavor
- NZ Queen™ – Deep red, very sweet
- Granny Smith – Classic tart green apple
- Pink Lady® – Branded Cripps Pink, excellent shelf life
- NZ Rose (Pacific Rose) – Aromatic, pink-blushed, premium apple
- NZ Beauty – Early-season variety with bright red skin
- GEM™ – Exclusive New Zealand-bred variety with premium eating quality
- MAC12 – Upcoming licensed variety under pre-commercial trial (known for high yield and blush color)
The company offers flexible packaging formats including tray packs, polybags, and bulk export cartons, depending on client and market requirements.
Orchards and Production
Mt Erin’s orchards are located across Hawke’s Bay, benefiting from:
- 1,900+ sunshine hours annually
- Volcanic, free-draining soils
- Consistent cool nights and warm days, ideal for color development and sugar accumulation
The orchards implement high-density planting systems, integrated pest management (IPM), and precision irrigation to maximize yield and quality.
Packing and Logistics
- Packhouse: Equipped with automated grading and optical sorting systems
- Cold Storage: Dynamic Controlled Atmosphere (DCA) facilities maintain post-harvest quality and extend shelf life
- Logistics: Integration with Napier and Tauranga ports ensures rapid shipping to Asia, Middle East, and Europe
All fruit is packed to export-grade standards and undergoes batch-level traceability, meeting customer and regulatory requirements.
Export Markets and Reach
Mt Erin exports to multiple regions, with a focus on:
- Asia: China, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong
- Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar
- North America: Canada (select clients)
- Europe: United Kingdom, Netherlands (limited volume)
Apples are shipped weekly during the New Zealand export season (February to September), with demand peaking for Royal Gala, Fuji, and Queen varieties.
Certifications and Compliance
Mt Erin Group complies with international food safety and sustainability standards:
- GLOBAL G.A.P.
- GRASP (GlobalG.A.P. Risk Assessment on Social Practice)
- NZGAP (New Zealand Good Agricultural Practice)
- MPI Export Certification via the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries
- Sedex membership for ethical supply chain management
Their packing facility is regularly audited under both private customer and government protocols to ensure safe and high-quality exports.
Sustainability and Innovation
Mt Erin is committed to environmentally responsible growing practices:
- Low-residue programs with biological inputs
- Recycled packaging materials in export cartons
- Orchard biodiversity zones to support pollination and soil health
- Water conservation through smart irrigation systems
The company is also engaged in varietal innovation trials in partnership with Plant & Food Research NZ, with the MAC12 variety being the latest under pre-commercial evaluation.
Customer Testimonials
“Mt Erin apples have been a strong performer in our premium fruit section. Their consistency and flavor are well received by our retail clients.”
— Fruit Importer, Malaysia
“Their flexible packaging options and seasonal supply make them an ideal partner for our wholesale and retail markets.”
— Distributor, UAE
Key Achievements
- Exported to 10+ international markets across Asia and the Middle East
- Over 500 hectares of orchard area across member growers
- Premium recognition for GEM™ and NZ Rose varieties in Southeast Asian markets
- Participation in the New Zealand Apple and Pear Industry Sustainability Strategy
- Active contributor to regional Hawke’s Bay pipfruit promotional campaigns
Mt Erin Group Ltd continues to drive the legacy of New Zealand’s apple industry forward, combining traditional grower knowledge with cutting-edge post-harvest systems and global market responsiveness. With varietal innovation, ethical growing, and integrated logistics, Mt Erin is well-positioned to serve the next generation of premium apple consumers worldwide.