Air New Zealand Cargo is once again helping Kiwi exporters deliver the best of New Zealand produce to the world this holiday season. The airline is set to move a huge 5 million kilograms of cargo through December and January, with a large proportion of that set to end up on Christmas dinner tables around the globe.

Air New Zealand General Manager of Cargo Anne Dunne, says we have an exceptional fresh produce market in Aotearoa and it’s a privilege to connect their high-quality products with global markets, especially at this time of year.

“We love playing a part in helping deliver some of New Zealand’s finest exports to the world, including New Zealand’s much-loved premium lamb and cherries. We like to think of ourselves as Santa’s little helpers, with a cargo hold full of seasonal goodies!”

“Exports play such an important role in New Zealand’s economy, driving growth and supporting local communities which is why we work hard to partner with those exporters who have sought-after commodities in international markets.”

Cherries are especially popular in Asia during the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year, a time when they’re considered a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and family unity.

“With 80% of New Zealand’s cherry crop exported during this period, we want to make sure no cherry is left behind.”

The airline will support exporters from across Aotearoa to move up to 1 million kilograms of cherries to key export markets like Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan, as well as smaller shipments to North America. Through partnerships with other airlines, New Zealand’s sought-after cherries also make their way to Vietnam.

As well as cherries, Air New Zealand Cargo works with farmers to help deliver New Zealand’s renowned grass-fed meat to key export markets just in time for Christmas.

“Much of the exports have already made their way to markets like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Zurich. In November alone, we’ve transported around 120,000kgs of lamb and beef, ensuring it can make its way to Christmas dinner plates in December.”

Seafood is also a hot commodity this Christmas with 1.3 billion kilograms of seafood annually heading across the Tasman to Australia. Salmon, tuna, and shellfish are some of the catch-of-the-day delicacies winging their way across the ditch.

Dunne adds: “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.”