KIKU

A warm New Zealand summer has delighted Kiku apple growers across the Oceanic nation.

The hot weather has helped to enhance the natural sugar levels of the fruit, with higher than normal brix levels the result. This has been perfectly balanced by a run of cooler nights, which has allowed the development of colour in this season’s fruit.

With harvest in full swing and export programmes to the US and Asia now underway, Nathan Clark, operations manager for Kiku grower Sunfruit Orchards, said optimism was high for the season ahead.

“It is the best Kiku we have ever harvested - it has a great size with amazing taste and colour,” explained Clark.