Picking of late variety apples is underway in the Nelson/Motueka region and so far fruit volume is up 25% - 30% on last year.
Country Life reports the Royal Gala packout has been exceptional.
Meanwhile, Hawke's Bay had a showery week which slowed apple harvesting. The fruit is also taking a while to ripen.
From now on all the later varieties will be ready, so pickers and packers will be very busy.
And showers in Bay of Plenty also slowed picking of green kiwifruit there this week.
