New Zealand company Turners & Growers have completed construction of a NZ$4m (US$2.86m) cool store & dry store facility at the country's North Island's largest packhouse and orchard operation, Kerifresh.
Situated in the town of Kerikeri, the two 430m2 facilities feature the latest EcoChill natural refrigeration, the first time such technology has been used for kiwifruit in New Zealand, Voxy reported.
Turners & Growers CEO Jeff Wesley said the investment is better for the environment and ensures fruit is in the best possible condition for export.
'EcoChill operates at much higher humidity than standard refrigeration systems, which is better for produce, meaning fruit for export leaves the country in a much better condition. This technology also means we are reducing our energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions,' Mr Wesley said.
'As the country's leading produce exporter we're always looking for new innovations and technologies that ensure our New Zealand produce succeeds in competitive export markets.'
Kerifresh General Manager Alan Kerr said the investment is a boost to the local economy, where his company is the largest employer.
'Kerifresh is a leader in New Zealand's horticultural innovation. We are investing for the future here in our post-harvest facilities, orchard management techniques, new large-scale plantings and research and development into new varieties for export,' he said.
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