The kiwifruit enjoys a fascinating history, and its recent rise in popularity reflects a combination of an appreciation for its unique taste, nutritional value, appearance and, surprisingly, its changing name.

Native to China, kiwifruits were originally known as Yang Tao. They were brought to New Zealand from China by missionaries in the early 20th century, with the first commercial plantings occurring several decades later. In 1960, they were renamed Chinese Gooseberries.