Te Puke Scientist Becomes Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit

Russell Lowe, a leading scientist from Te Puke, has been named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. This honour recognises his significant contributions to horticulture and the kiwifruit industry.

Lowe's work has been pivotal in developing two-thirds of New Zealand's kiwifruit varieties. Over his 51-year career, he has been instrumental in creating popular varieties such as Zespri Gold, Zespri SunGold, and Zespri RubyRed.

His innovations and dedication during his tenure with the Department of Scientific Industrial Research and Crown Research Institutes have greatly advanced the sector. Receiving this recognition on the King’s Birthday Honours list is both rewarding and humbling for Lowe.

Originally reported by SunLive.