New Zealand will produce its most diverse apple crop in recent history in 2013 according to figures just released by industry body Pipfruit New Zealand.
Alan Pollard, CEO of the organisation presented the official apple and pear export crop estimate to industry leaders at a meeting in Hawkes Bay today. He announced “ a relatively modest volume” and “the most balanced crop we have had in many seasons”.
Volume is forecast to reach 16.9 million cartons. The NZ industry has been working to reduce its reliance on Braeburn and to focus on varieties that have more appeal particularly in Asia. Pollard said: “All of our newer varieties are up in volume which is extremely positive. Braeburn plantings continue to reduce, with this year’s forecast Braeburn crop at 3.4 million cartons the lowest on record.”
Summer growing conditions have been typical in all the major apple-growing regions leading to forecasts for high quality, good coloured, crisp fruit.
The trend of rising NZ imports to Asia and the Middle East continues and in 2012, top-fruit supplies to these markets rose to 40 per cent of total exports from 33 per cent in 2011.
The largest percentage of this year’s export volume will come from the Hawke’s Bay area, which will supply 61 per cent of the crop, some 10.4m cartons. Nelson is expected to export 5.2m cartons or 31 per cent of the total export volume, Central Otago 650,000t cartons or four per cent and the remaining regions a final four per cent.
