A group of emerging Australian cherry leaders group headed across the Tasman in August, to explore New Zealand's cherry-growing region of Central Otago.

The study tour provided a fantastic opportunity to see how Kiwi growers are tackling production, adopting new technologies and continuing to drive quality and productivity improvements.

The tour kicked off with a networking dinner in Queenstown, giving participants the chance to connect before hitting the road.

Over two days, the group visited a range of cherry businesses across Cromwell, Clyde, Alexandra and Roxburgh, including Suncrest Orchard, 45 South Cherries, Electric Cherries, Panmure Orchard, Darlings Orchard and Fairview Orchard.

From innovative orchard systems and labour-saving technologies to production practices and fruit quality management, there was plenty to see and discuss.

The growers generously shared their experiences, challenges and successes, providing valuable insights into New Zealand's cherry industry.

A visit to CentralPac packhouse offered a behind-the-scenes look at how cherries are handled after harvest, including packing, quality assurance and export preparation.

Participants also toured the Bioeconomy Science Institute in Clyde, where they learned about current research and development projects supporting the future of the stone fruit industry.

And it wasn’t all business.

After the CentralPac visit, the group embraced a classic New Zealand pastime with a game of curling alongside local growers.

The friendly competition provided plenty of laughs and was a great way to strengthen industry connections and get to know fellow participants.

The final day included a Summerfruit New Zealand workshop, where the group networked and discussed production issues with the young growers of the New Zealand industry.

The trip was made possible by the growers who help host the group and Summerfruit New Zealand who helped connect the emerging leaders with the cherry industry in Central Otago.