Following extreme weather events of recent months, the devastation caused is reflected in the food price index.
As expected, the prices of fruits and vegetables increased compared to this same time last year, and the effects of flooding and the cyclone will continue to impact the market for the foreseeable months.
Most horticulture land in Northland and Auckland has been wiped out entirely due to flash flooding and the cyclone, while other areas have managed to come from the events unscathed.
United Fresh President, Jerry Prendergast, asked shoppers to be patient, with the knowledge that growers across the affected regions are facing devastating problems that are yet to be solved.
“Torrential rain and high winds have destroyed crops and hampered the whole planting and harvesting cycle. The best thing we can all do to help is to be flexible, try an alternative to your favourite vegetable or fruit while our growers get back in business,” said Prendergast.
While the industry is struggling to recover from the extreme weather, Prendergast assured that fresh seasonal produce of good value and quality still exists.
“While the Food Price Index shows prices have risen across the board, this statistic doesn’t include seasonal specials.”
Heading into winter months poses more challenges for growers across the country. However, Prendergast stated that there is hope for the industry yet.
“The sun will come out for growers throughout Aotearoa. This month we’ll be seeing salad leaves such as icebergs come back into the market as some of our leafy greens recover from damage in January, and next month some root crops will be in good supply too.”
