Kia ora koutou katoa

As we wind down 2020 reflecting on the ‘year that was’ brings forth a mixture of thoughts and emotions.

However, I think we all share pride in New Zealand, and in the science system that has helped guide us throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The value of high-quality science cannot be over-estimated and that is what we strive towards in HVN. We have seen the role of science in decision making escalate; we certainly can’t claim to be any part of the Government’s response to Covid-19, but we look forward to continuing the kōrero on the development of transformational plans for the food and beverage industry, with the value of HVN research being a key part.

We now look to progress our programme throughout what will hopefully be a more settled 2021. Once again we must thank all of our teams for their resilience and commitment to pursuing the mission of HVN in what has been an incredibly challenging yet quite successful year.

We wish you and your whānau a restful, safe and refreshing break. The HVN team will be back on Monday 25 January 2021 with renewed energy to keep the focus on bringing high-value foods with validated health benefits to the world.

Meri Kirihimete
Joanne Todd, Director, High-Value Nutrition National Science Challenge