New Zealand’s main supply of fresh blueberries for the season are arriving on supermarket shelves now. The main commercial crops of blueberries are grown in the Waikato, Hawkes Bay, the Far North and Bay of Plenty. This season runs from the beginning of December through until March and the summer is forecast to be a bumper harvest.
Dan Peach, Chairman of NZ Blueberries, says this ultra-healthy snack can be enjoyed straight from the punnet at any time of day. But adding them to pizza, salads and meat dishes for an extra burst of colour and flavour is also right on trend.
“People’s idea of what a salad is has changed quite a lot in recent years. It’s common now to add different fruits and nuts for taste and texture, and blueberries are an ideal fruit to include because they’re super healthy as well as delicious.”
“Pizza is another popular combination that people can adapt – take a tasty chicken pizza, add a handful of fresh blueberries and you’ll pack some extra antioxidants into your day. Blueberries are a pretty versatile fruit and you can use them in so many ways.”
In addition to enjoying blueberries in salads and as a pizza topping this summer, they are an ideal addition to lunchboxes, smoothies, kids’ snack platters and home baking.
About Blueberries New Zealand
Blueberries New Zealand Inc (BBNZ) represents the blueberry industry in New Zealand. The group helps growers promote and develop the local industry, comply with regulations, and co-ordinate a research and development programme.
New Zealand’s blueberry industry is rapidly expanding. There are 600 hectares planted at present in both the North and South Islands. BBNZ consists of grower members, exporter members and associate members and aims to further the interests of all blueberry industry participants.
Did you know?
Blueberries contain higher antioxidant levels than almost any other fruit or vegetable. They are believed to enhance weight loss, boost brain and bowel function, promote good eyesight and help keep cholesterol under control.
