New location for Food HQ marks a 10 year milestone
Based here in Manawatū, Food HQ represents the largest collaboration of food science and innovation in New Zealand. Its vision is to build a truly sustainable food system in Aotearoa that is equitable, innovative and export focused.
Celebrating 10 years in operation, FoodHQ marked this milestone by launching their new office in Palmerston North in late December 2023, surrounded by key partners and stakeholders.
Located in the building previously home to The Factory, Food HQ has taken the lease on from AgResearch, right in the heart of the science precinct of the city.
From left to right: FoodHQ CEO Dr. Victoria Hatton, Board member Gil Meron, Mayor Grant Smith, Board member Chris Dyhrberg, Mayor Helen Worboys, Board Chair Mark Piper, and Board member Sue Bidrose.
FoodHQ CEO, Dr. Victoria Hatton is excited that the physical presence will help to provide visibility to the organisation and help to demystify what FoodHQ does at a pivotal time in their development.
“Across the FoodHQ partnership, we will have the power to shape the future of food with the research, science and innovation that is happening in the sector. The ability to take a physical stand and say this is us and where we are, is exciting and it is poignant that this is 10 years on from the initiation of FoodHQ.”
The launch event also provided attendees with further insight into the Manawatū Regional Food Strategy, which was officially released at the event.
“This strategy sets a shared vision for the region, ensuring a bright future for food and agriculture, guiding stakeholders across the ecosystem from field to consumer,” says CEDA CEO, Jerry Shearman.
“Food HQ are, and will continue to be, instrumental in the region’s ability to succeed in the agrifood space and we look forward to supporting them in their new endeavour.”
The regional strategy was commissioned by the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA) in collaboration with Palmerston North City Council and Manawatū District Council along with an extensive group of partners and stakeholders, identified the region’s position in the agrifood ecosystem including how the region can best contribute to the New Zealand food story.
