The first new season onions have arrived on the market, with Japanese short days being utilised for local consumption and shipping to the Pacific Islands as existing storage crops are nearing their end within the next 3-4 weeks.
In the Pukekohe region, the primary export crops, both yellow and red onions, are faring well, with some areas beginning irrigation. The Pukekohe long types are scheduled for lifting and curing in the upcoming 6-8 weeks, with the harvest set to start in mid-January. Exports are expected to follow shortly after the commencement of the harvest.
The acreage dedicated to yellow onions in New Zealand has decreased by 348 hectares to a total of 4,042 hectares, marking an 8% reduction. Conversely, the red onion acreage has increased by 89 hectares to a total of 650.2 hectares, reflecting a 15% rise.
While it is too early to predict the quality or final yields, optimal conditions could lead to a normal export crop.
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