N.Z. FRUITGROWERS.

Press, Volume LXI, Issue 18405, 11 June 1925, Page 13

N.Z. FRUITGROWERS.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE. (rillSS ASSOCHTJOS TIHOJUV.) WELLINGTON, June 10. The annual conference of the New Zealand Fruitgrowers' Federation was opened to-day, Mr T. C. Brash presiding. The Hon. W. Nosworthy congratulated growers on the very encouraging outlook for the industry. * Previously he had been inclined to look upon the industry as a case more for the Plunket Society than for the Department. As a baby the Government was compelled to carry, it had been one of the weakest. Ihc prospects for the future, however, were very bright. There had been a gradual easing up during recent vears in the area planted in commercial orchards, only some 3S acres being set out during the planting season. The total area for the whole Dominion stood at approximately 30,000 acres, of which about 73 per cent, consisted of apples. A total of i.i" 74 orchards were registered during the past year and £1970 collected in orchard tax. This amount, less cost of collection, had been paid over to the federation for furthering the interests of the fruitgrowing industry generally.

Mr Brush, in moving the adoption of the animal report, said that the problem of blemished fruit was one which had had a great effect on the local market. The results of exporting this year had been very satisfactory, probably due in a great measure to better quality fruit, and also better steamer service. The fruit was arriving in England in better condition than ever before. In Great Britain New Zealand apples were at the top of the tree. Exports had increased by f>oo per cent, in tho past five years. What was required by the growers was more speedy shipment, and this was recoiving consideration. A regular service was also desired. Tho fruitgrowers' exhibit at Wemb!-;y was the only one from the Dominion to pay its way. During the first Exhibition 9000 cases of apples had been sold, and the directors had determined to continue the exhibit throughout tho second Wembley. Mr T. .W. Attwood had been sent Home for the purpose.