Zespri not backing kiwifruit claim

Zespri won't be backing a class action being taken against the government by some kiwifruit growers over the spread of the devastating PSA disease.

Zespri's chairman Peter McBride says he's written to growers to explain he doesn't support or agree with the approach being taken by the group behind the claim.

"The statement of claim is not even available yet for review," he said.

"The architects of the Kiwifruit Claim are seeking to sign up growers to a class action before they have had the opportunity to properly consider the legal merits of the claim and before the statement of claim has been filed."

Mr McBride is "extremely concerned" the claim lacks transparency.

"This campaign has been launched through the media with no consultation with the industry."

The Kiwifruit Claim says Biosecurity New Zealand - now part of the Ministry of Primary Industries - was negligent in its duty to protect kiwifruit growers from the disease.

Kiwifruit Claim chairman John Cameron says an independent 2012 report by Sapere commissioned by the MPI identified major shortcomings with Biosecurity NZ's import requirements and border processes.

This led to losses which amount to at least $885 million, Mr Cameron said.

"There is no doubt in our minds that Biosecurity NZ was negligent in how it was protecting New Zealand from PSA and other risks from as far back as 2004."

Mr Cameron estimated 10 per cent of the kiwifruit industry would take part in the claim and that that number could grow.

But Mr McBride says the last thing the kiwifruit industry needs is for the focus to be taken from growing the industry and placed on a divisive, drawn out and expensive legal battle.

"I believe that the industry will prosper by working with the government, not against it," he said.