Kiwifruit growers have voiced resounding support for the Government’s $50m relief package to help the industry recover from the vine disease PSA.

They met around the country on Friday to consider the package, which would see Government and the kiwifruit industry put forward $25m each.

The money is conditional on grower approval, but New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers president Peter Ombler says support for the deal has been overwhelming.

“I think in principle it has almost unanimous support. But I think it’s fair to say that with a package like this, when you put it together you’re putting it together as a broad bones concept for consultation.

"There are some parts of the package that are pretty fixed, i.e. the money, and then you’ve got the money, what can you do with the money? And how do you best spend the money?”

Industry leaders are also lending the package their support.

Seeka chief executive Michael Franks – whose company has so far confirmed seven cases among its suppliers – says the swift response by Government is encouraging.

“I think it’s extremely positive that the Government’s reacted so quickly. The three local ministers, [and] the Minister of Agriculture, have been very supportive.

"They’re aware of what’s going on. We’re only 13 days in. It’s a huge relief support and relief to actually have that in place this early in to this process.”

One of Seeka’s confirmed infections is in a green orchard – until this week PSA had been confined to the gold variety – but Michael Franks says that’s by no means a disaster.

“The fact that we’ve got PSA is a concern full stop. But we’re not yet sure how it manifests itself in green.

"Green is a hardier plant and in Italy has been able to withstand the infection to some extent. So we just need to see how this plays out over the next week or so.”

The package is expected to be given the green light over the weekend. The money will be available immediately.