Summer has officially arrived with New Zealand-grown summerfruit in the shops.
New Summerfruit NZ Chief Executive Dean Smith said that the season for delicious locally grown cherries, nectarines, peaches, apricots and plums was underway, with early fruit being harvested in the Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough and with fruit to come from Central Otago soon.
“About 30 percent of the total crop is grown in Hawke’s Bay,” said Smith.
“There are a handful of cherry growers in Blenheim, with the rest of the crop, up to 70 percent coming from Central Otago, where conditions are ideal for summerfruit: cold, sharp winters for winter chill and hot, dry summers to ripen the fruit.”
Smith added that the summerfruit industry has been positive about the season ahead. At the same time, it was too early to estimate crop volumes.
“Last year, cherry exports amounted to 3778 tonnes, which was higher than the last three seasons. The biggest market was Taiwan, which was significantly ahead of China.”
He said that while the frosty, snowy weather in Central Otago a few weeks ago created pockets of damage, on the whole, things had been looking good for a strong season of top-quality fruit.
“The labour supply situation is also looking positive, with plenty of backpackers and New Zealanders looking for seasonal work, particularly in Central Otago.”
Smith also mentioned that the industry has continued to focus on quality. Research has shown that consistent quality and flavour have been key to consumers continuing to enjoy and buy summerfruit throughout the season.
“Growers understand this and put considerable effort into ensuring every bite tastes as good as it can.”
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