Pipfruit New Zealand today presented their official apple and pear export crop estimate to industry leaders at a meeting in Hawkes Bay.

Pipfruit New Zealand CEO Alan Pollard announced that at 16.9 million (18kg) cartons this was “a relatively modest volume and comprises the most balanced crop we have had in many seasons”.

Asked about what he meant by most balanced, Mr Pollard said that significant new plantings have come into production. “The New Zealand apple basket is very diverse now and has much wider global appeal”

For several years now the industry has been working to reduce its traditional reliance on Braeburn and to focus on varieties that have more appeal particularly in Asia. “All of our newer varieties are up in volume which is extremely positive”, says Mr Pollard. “Braeburn plantings continue to reduce, with this year’s forecast Braeburn crop at 3.4 million cartons the lowest on record”.

The typical summer conditions in the apple growing regions this year are perfect for growing the high quality crisp fresh fruit that New Zealand is world famous for. “New Zealand’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high quality, well coloured, safe apples and pears enables us to command premium prices in all markets”, Mr Pollard says. “This year will be no different, with exporters already receiving good levels of enquiry from Asia, Europe and North America”. 

The industry continues to see an increase in supply into Asia and the Middle East, and a reduced reliance on Europe. Supply to these developing markets has increased from 33% of total export volumes in 2011 to 40% last year.

Again the largest percentage of this year’s export volume will come from Hawke’s Bay, which will supply 61% of the crop (or 10.4 million cartons). Nelson is expected to export 5.2 million cartons or 31% of the total export volume, Central Otago 0.65 million cartons or 4%, and the remaining regions (primarily Waikato, Gisborne and Wairarapa) 0.7 million cartons or 4%. 

Statement ends.

For more information contact

Alan Pollard, Chief Executive

Pipfruit New Zealand Inc

+64 6 873 7080

+64 21 576 109