Early forecasts point to another standout season with “exceptional” quality and high packout rates
New Zealand’s apple and pear harvest is underway, with early forecasts pointing to a standout season marked by exceptional fruit quality and high packout rates, according to New Zealand Apple and Pears (NZAPI).
The industry body called pre-season conditions across key regions “quintessential” and said this had delivered a significant boost to productivity, across both traditional and new IP varieties.
NZAPI acting general manager Danielle Adsett said it marked a welcome return to form for the industry after several challenging years that included Covid-19 disruptions and extreme weather events.
“It’s incredibly heartening to see,” Adsett said. “The fruit looks and, most importantly, tastes fantastic. Growers are reporting excellent quality, early pack-outs are tracking really well and there’s a real sense of optimism across the industry.
“While we are still building toward previous pre-Covid peaks, this year’s improved productivity numbers are the real gamechanger for growers. After an excellent 2025 harvest, this season is also tracking in the right direction.”
A warm, dry spring with good growing degree days and high levels of solar radiation has resulted in large fruit with vibrant colour and high eating quality. Apples and pears from all growing regions are also expected to store well for export markets.
“We’re delighted with the significant uplift in productivity, which can largely be attributed to the maturation of new plantings of IP varieties,” Adsett said. “It is particularly valuable given New Zealand apples and pears are in high demand, due to expansive opportunities across a number of our global markets and the premium quality of fruit.”
Productivity gains are attributed to the strong focus from growers to transitioning their orchards to more updated growing systems, that are more efficient and deliver higher yields.
“The new IP varieties deliver higher yields and attract stronger returns in global markets, however some of these orchards are still relatively young,” Adsett noted. “They need time in the ground before they reach full production, which suggests further growth and improved productivity is in the pipeline.”
New Zealand’s apple and pear industry is a major contributor to national export earnings as well as regional economies and supports New Zealand’s reputation as a leading producer of premium, safe and sustainably grown food.
As the 2026 harvest gathers momentum, NZAPI said growers are focused on delivering consistent quality to customers around the world, while continuing to invest for the future.
