THE ORANGE CROP.

Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 57, 4 September 1926, Page 15

THE ORANGE CROP.

All over the- islands thousands of orange trees grow wild, and it is from these trees the oranges are gathered that are exported to New Zealand. The natives gather the oranges by methods more or less faulty, but gradually the more intelligent growers are evolving better methods of dealing with the fruit, so that loss through bruising is prevented. The oranges are packed in cases which all come from New Zealand. Prom the packing sheds the oranges are transported to the wharf sheds in motor-lorries, or, in more picturesque fashion, in wagonettes drawn by little ponies. As stated, the fruit is subjectto rigid, inspection before being passed for export. On the day when the mail steamer from San Francisco arrives off the bay exceeding aativity and great excite-

ment prevail. Natives flock to the wharves in order to take part in the loading of the Vessel. The cases of oranges, tomatoes, and bananas are piled on little trucks, run along the wharf to the lighters, which are loaded up, and towed o~ut to the side of the mail steamer, and there transhipped to the hold of the big vessel. During all these operations much damage may occur. Cases aro broken by improper handling, oranges are pierced, and trouble begins. Then sometimes the day is wet and mildew sets in. Bananas and tomatoes are handled in much the same fashion. In passing, I may remark that the flavour of the Rarotongan banana is exceedingly good, and it is well that this fact should Ibe generally known.