Zespri awards two scholarships nationally every year to school leavers pursuing a career in the kiwifruit industry. The scholarship is worth $5,000 per year for three years toward tertiary study fees. It also includes mentoring and opportunities to be involved in the kiwifruit industry.

One of these awards has been won by Katikati College student and Head Boy, Fergus Chinnery . Zespri was impressed by his knowledge of and passion for the industry, as well as by his leadership skills and academic achievements. Fergus is interested in plant genetics and developing new varieties. He is going to study towards a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Cell and Molecular Bioscience, at Victoria University.