The New Zealand East Coast is anticipating a good harvest of apples, bringing the return of fresh-season apples to the shelves of supermarkets. Karen Morrish, the CEO of New Zealand Apple and Pear said that, despite the fact that last year’s harvest was damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle the current season’s rising conditions are “fantastic”.

About 610 ha of forest have been lost to Hawkes Bay and Tairawhiti, which accounts for around 10% of the crops. But, Morrish noted that apple tree and its growers are resistant. The conditions for growing in the United States are exceptional and a top-quality yield is anticipated.

The harvest began in February and will continue until April. Gisborne apple cultivator, Luke Hamlin, expressed that the last season was not easy as three of the seven orchards flooding. However but the forecast for the next season is positive.

Hamlin said it’s been an enjoyable change after a rough year. Shoppers can look forward to see more apples from the new season available in the near future. Morrish said that consumers will enjoy “good flavor, good color and a good crunch” from the new season’s apples including royal gala, appearing first on the shelves of supermarkets.

Source: www.rnz.co.nz