Zespri RubyRed kiwifruit volume set to double

More than 3 million trays of Zespri RubyRed kiwifruit will be available this season, with its berry-like taste available for the first time in a number of exciting new markets. The RubyRed harvest will get under way in New Zealand in the coming weeks.

CEO Jason Te Brake said it’s an exciting time for Zespri RubyRed kiwifruit with volume doubling compared with last season which is great news for consumers who love its sweet berry taste, vibrant red flesh color and the health benefits delivered by its high content of antioxidants.

Zespri RubyRed Kiwifruit is the latest variety to come through Zespri’s world-leading kiwifruit breeding program, in partnership with Plant & Food Research, with 2025 marking the fourth year of commercial production. It is naturally high in Vitamin C and contains anthocyanins that are naturally occurring pigments within the fruit giving the fruit its red color.

“We’re seeing strong demand for Zespri RubyRed, which is unique as it’s more seasonal than Green and SunGold. It’s the first variety to arrive in market from New Zealand each season and only available for up to eight weeks once it hits supermarket and fruit and vegetable store shelves," said CEO Jason Te Brake. “It’s fantastic to see volumes ramping up and we continue to build our knowledge on the variety. The increasing volumes also give us the opportunity to grow demand further and maximize the value we can return for our growers.”