South Australia has much to learn from New Zealand’s trade and export strategy, says Chaffey MP Tim Whetstone.

Mr Whetstone, also opposition spokesperson for trade and investment, recently made the trip overseas to meet with his New Zealand counterpart, who has committed to doubling NZ’s export value within the next decade.

Mr Whetstone said the New Zealand Government had a big job ahead of them, but that it’s the perfect time for South Australia to start taking notes.

“New Zealand’s export value has already grown 10 per cent in the last 12 months, with a large focus on agriculture, forestry, international education, and technology,” Mr Whetstone said.

“By comparison, SA’s overseas export value fell 5.5 per cent on the previous 12 months in the latest ABS release.

Major South Australian commodities like wine and seafood are in freefall. Outside of China, our wine exports are at their lowest value in the last decade, and their lowest volume in 20 years.

“I was given a better understanding of how New Zealand protects its wine industry and continues to avoid international trade barriers, especially exporting premium wine to China.

“It is clear that the New Zealand government holds its wine sector in high regard as a sacred commodity, and lends it the respect it deserves.”

Mr Whetstone said during his visit, he had a productive conversation with NZ Minister for Trade and Investment Todd McClay, about the future of South Australia’s relationship with the country.

“The Labor Government has turned its back on New Zealand and completely taken our trade relationship for granted,” he said.

“While ministers flaunt lacklustre trade strategies, South Australia’s exports to New Zealand are down by over 20 per cent.

“It’s evident that more needs to be done to revitalise our relationship with New Zealand and to embrace their success.

“The last few months have seen some important steps in the right direction, with Air New Zealand establishing direct flights to Adelaide, from both Auckland, and Christchurch.

“Qantas will also begin a seasonal route between Adelaide and Auckland, from October, to May 2026. As our national carrier, I’d like to see these flights extended throughout the year to promote more exports and tourism.

“I was also honoured to meet with the chair of the New Zealand Parliament’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee, Tim van der Molen, as well as other regional MPs with electorates like Chaffey.

“As the food bowl of South Australia, the Riverland and Mallee both have an inspiring story to share with the rest of the world, especially when it comes to our premium goods and produce, which are the envy of other markets.”

Mr Whetstone also met with SkyCity Group to discuss future investment in South Australia.

“SkyCity has been trialling a new hospitality scene in New Zealand and has big new plans for the sector in metropolitan Adelaide,” he said.

“This kind of innovative investment in our state is a welcome change, and as a region, we need to make a conscious effort to promote South Australia as a premier location to invest and to do business in.

This article appeared in Murray Pioneer, 13 August 2025.