Summerfruit
This commentary discusses the New Zealand summerfruit industry in the two main production regions, Hawke's Bay and Central Otago. Hawke's Bay growers mainly supply fresh summerfruit to the domestic market and processing fruit to Heinz Wattie's Limited (Heinz). Central Otago is much more export-orientated and grows a wider variety, with a larger proportion of cherries and apricots.
Key Points
- The 2002/03 summerfruit season will be remembered for two extremes of weather conditions which played a major role in the season's outcome. A cold, frosty spring was followed by a long, dry summer, resulting in light crops of excellent quality fruit.
- Hawke's Bay achieved only 35% of the average summerfruit crop volume due to severe spring frosts. Central Otago achieved 70% of a normal crop.
- The export volumes of peaches and nectarines have continued to decline. Summerfruit exports are now predominantly cherries and apricots from Central Otago.
- Local market returns increased dramatically on last year, due to much lower volumes and good fruit quality.
- Industry compliance requirements and costs have escalated in recent years, making it more and more difficult for the smaller family operation.
Contact for Enquiries
Farm Monitoring Programme Manager
Monitoring and Evaluation
MAF Policy
PO Box 2526
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND
Phone: +64 4 894 0623
Fax: +64 4 894 0741
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