New Zealand: Small operators step up to process Nelson's damaged apple crop
Small juicing operations are doing their best to help in the aftermath of the destructive Boxing Day hailstorm in Motueka, that damaged thousands of tonnes of apples. According to figures from New Zealand Apples and Pears, Nelson's crop was down by 36 per cent due to the damage from the hail.
While many apple crops throughout the region are no longer fit for export, there is a surplus of fruit which could still be salvaged, including for juicing. However, late last year the main juicing plant in the region was shut down, with owners Cedenco Foods packing up the operation and moving it to the Hawke's Bay.