According to reports in the New Zealand Herald, some growers have lost up to 60 per cent of their production following a late spring frost on October 25.

The cold snap struck in Waikato, which grows 90 per cent of the country's blueberry crop, but the industry is reported to be recovering.

However, the damage is likely to mean a shortage of supplies to the domestic market. Some growers are even concerned whether they will be able to meet planned export programmes, especially into the key market of Japan. A shortfall this season could mean a loss in market share that will be tough to rebuild in the medium term.

Blueberries are the second most important berry fruit export revenue earner for New Zealand after strawberries. The export season runs from December to March. Fruit arrives in the UK in 2.5kg cartons.