Horticulture in Nelson What is the region Geography Regional Identity Diverse crops

Geography Climate Limited land Water problems Nelson Tasman region Geography Climate Limited land Water problems

Nelson Regional Development Agency

Diverse crops Long history of horticultural cropping Tobacco legacy the basis of skills An important part of land development in the small river valleys

Apples Area static at 2500 ha Declining percentage of national crop, now around 25% Production increasing with intensive planting replacing old low producing hill land Braeburn dominance a problem over the past decade

Grapes 1135 ha, 2.4% of NZ production 4th largest in production, 5th in value Concentration on aromatics, as a point of difference, and a good match with seafood Terroir and climate suitable for a wide range of varieties, with national success in nearly all types

Kiwifruit 2017 production down 20% after a difficult season Production of 4m trays likely with new sungold more than 50% Opportunity for increases in new planting Yields lower than Bay of Plenty but good operators producing at high levels

Berryfruit Boysenberries 170 ha, 2,500 T, 90% of NZ crop Largest region globally with climate and grower skills dominant factors Health awareness growing demand Possible doubling of production over next decade Blackcurrants Was 300 ha and 3000T. Now nearly zero Raspberries Formerly a significant land use, now confined to one grower, with 200 T

Fresh Vegetables Fresh local market production only Significant supply area for south island Covered area still expanding

Hops Unique NZ cultivars Craft brewing driving demand Small industry- 450 ha - now with rapid production increase Last 5 years static production at 7 - 800 tonnes Next 5 years production more than doubles