Summerfruit Update

Market conditions continue to track well, with increasing supply now coming out of the South Island. Supermarket shelves are well stocked and demand has been supported by the lead-in to Chinese New Year, which has provided a timely lift across several categories.

There have been some minor transport delays through Picton due to recent ferry disruptions, resulting in one- to two-day interruptions and a temporary tightening of supply. Any fruit affected by these delays will be incorporated into current picking and packing programmes later in the week. There is no fruit being held in cool storage post-packing, so supply remains current and moving through the system as expected.

Growing conditions were ideal for most of last week until weather systems moved across parts of the lower North Island. The storm that affected South Waikato, Manawatu and Greater Wellington had limited impact in Hawke’s Bay.

The Heretaunga Plains received between 30 and 40 millimetres of rain, accompanied by strong winds. Encouragingly, there have been no reports of significant orchard damage. Some tree tops may show minor broken branches and leaf loss, and a few newly planted trees may need straightening, but overall the region has come through well.

There are early signs of autumn emerging, with a further slowing in Growing Degree Day accumulation. The week ahead is forecast to bring moderate temperatures and no rain, which should provide very good conditions for continued fruit development and harvest activity.

Central Otago experienced settled weather last week, with good temperatures through to Monday and no rainfall. The outlook for the coming week remains similar, with moderate conditions expected to maintain steady maturity progression.

Harvest timing has largely returned to normal, with the season now only a couple of days behind historical averages. Growers report a sense of confidence, as current conditions allow fruit to be harvested at optimal maturity without pressure. Eating quality continues to be very good despite the cooler summer, and volumes of peaches and nectarines are steadily building.

Cherry volumes are now low, with the final fruit moving through the market. Feedback suggests that this late-season fruit has been some of the best tasting of the season, closing out the crop on a strong note.

Apricot supply is drawing to a close. Clutha Gold will complete its final pick this week. Nevis 160 and Summer Passion (NZS2) are currently being harvested, with Nevis 180 and Summer Blaze (NZS3) expected shortly. These will be the final apricots to reach the market this season.

Nectarine demand remains firm and volumes are increasing. The last Hawke’s Bay August Fire will be sold this week, after which the market will transition fully to Central Otago fruit. Mid Star is finishing and Late Star is just beginning. Other varieties currently being harvested include Venus, Summer Bright, Orion, Fantasia and Zephyr, providing good range and continuity of supply.

Peach volumes have strengthened for the first time this season, driven by golden varieties and peacharines from Hawke’s Bay. Golden Queen harvest has just begun on selected orchards. Fruit maturity is looking improved compared with last week, and Central Otago volumes are building steadily while demand remains strong. Hunny peaches such as Sweet Dream and Tropical Candy are available, alongside traditional varieties including Flamecrest, Rome Star and the final Glowing Star. White-fleshed Honey Water and Southern Star are also in the market. Flatto White is finishing, with Flatto Gold expected to continue for a further two to three weeks. Peacharines and Tatura Belle are just commencing harvest.

Plum supply remains tight. In Hawke’s Bay, growers are waiting on Marvel, expected at the end of this week, followed by Royal Star the week after. Current harvest includes light volumes of Te Mata Gold, Autumn Honey and Angelino. In Central Otago, volumes are also light, with limited Fortune still available and Freedom and Black Doris making up the majority of supply. Greengage continues to be picked and Omega is not far from harvest.

Overall, the season continues to progress steadily, with improving volumes across several categories and strong eating quality supporting the market.