Horticultural research in the Nelson region has been making a significant contribution to the success of the apple industry since 1930. Now new cultivars in hops, kiwifruit, pears, raspberries, blackberries and boysenberries are also being developed at Riwaka, as well as methods to reduce production costs and increase yields of export quality fruit.
Significant new releases include Pacific Hallertauer, a hop variety which can be grown virtually spray-free in New Zealand; Karaka Black, a black-fruited hybrid berry with large cylindrical fruit that is perfect for the fresh market; and Waimea, a high-quality raspberry that is ideal for both the fresh market and for processing.
The Nelson region is the largest producer of boysenberries in New Zealand, and our scientists are working on many aspects of production including cane management, pollination and Botrytis management.
Other research includes Integrated Fruit Production, physiology work on pipfruit and kiwifruit, postharvest physiology, olives, sustainable Sphagnum moss production and the use of alpine mosses in revegetation of high-altitude mine sites.
| Physical & Postal Address: HortResearch Nelson Region Old Mill Road RD 3 Motueka 7198 New Zealand |
Tel: +64 3 907 3595
Fax: +64 3 907 3596
