South Island growers being knocked out by carbon costs

A winter tomato shortage might soon hit the South Island - with growers saying they face oblivion because of record high carbon charges, as the Government tries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Much of their supply is grown in glasshouses heated by coal-fired burners - unlike in the North island where gas, diesel or geothermal power is mostly used. Helen Barnes from Tomatoes New Zealand told our reporter Tracy Neal growers have been seeking government help transitioning to cleaner fuels.