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What, if any, engagement has the Ministry of Social Development and Employment had with the employer or workers associated with the job losses due to the closure of Heinz Wattie's Christchurch, Dunedin and Auckland manufacturing sites and Hastings frozen packing lines, listed by date?

Answered Question 13393 (2026)
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Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • What, if any, engagement has the Ministry of Social Development and Employment had with the employer or workers associated with the job losses due to the closure of Heinz Wattie's Christchurch, Dunedin and Auckland manufacturing sites and Hastings frozen packing lines, listed by date?

Answered by

Hon Louise Upston

Member for Taupō · National Party · Minister for Social Development and Employment

Answer

I am advised by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) that MSD has made multiple attempts to engage and offer support with Heinz Watties since the announcement on 11 March without any success. MSD is aware that Heinz Watties already have a plan with a third-party support provider to help them through the closure, so MSD’s support may not be required. MSD will continue to intermittently check in with Heinz Watties and relevant contacts to identify if and when MSD’s assistance is needed.