The challenge of exporting fresh food from the Chatham Islands to markets overseas Available to Purchase

The eastern‐most lands of New Zealand are the Chatham Islands. Farming and fishing form the backbone of the local economy. These islands have great potential, in terms of food production and food exports. Yet, over the years, local entrepreneurs have encountered difficulties beyond their control. Essential to food exports is an effective transportation service at an affordable price. A local airline has been instrumental in exporting the fresh catch of local fishermen, who formerly obtained lower prices for frozen products. Livestock farmers, however, are subjected to schedules, rates and conditions imposed by an external firm, which appears to look after its own interests more than the common good of the island group.