Carrot production up... but prices down

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 46, 8 May 1984, Page 3

Carrot production up... but prices down

We spoke to Peter Hammond recently on his new appointment as President of the Ohakune Growers' Association and during our conversation with him several other points came up, including the long running plans for 'The Big Carrot'. Mr Hammond, there is concern in the area at the low price being received for Ohakune carrots at the markets. What are the reasons for this downturn in the industry? "The 1 984 season has seen an increase in the carrot acreage from seven hundred last year to eight hundred this year. The February/ March figures put production 40% ahead of last season due to an excellent growing period. This has led to a complete over-supply of Ohakune carrots at the city markets culminating in an average price of $3 for a 20kg bag compared with $5-$6 last year. It has been estimated that it costs $3 a bag to grow and harvest a bag of carrots!" "All is not gloom, however. Other crops such as cauliflower, brussel sprouts and parsnips have seen little change in price or acreage whilst potatoes have been slightly above average." "From now until September, Ohakune growers enjoy 90% of the root crop vegetable market. except for potatoes, in most of the N.orth Island. Obviously we've got the supply but three million people just can't quite create the demand." You obviously have faith in the industry yourself This is proven by the completion of your new shed. What predictions do you have for the rest of the season both for yourself and the Ohakune growers? "I believe that with better communication between the

markets and the growers, the situation could improve. We need to ensure that only quality produce be sent to the markets. This means that perhaps a little bit more should be fed to the , stock this year. I would also like to personally encourage the local outlets of Ohakune produce to use some imagination . in the display and promotion of the products. Good marketing is essential ... after all this is the heart of the best vegetable growing area in New Zealand and retailers are the window for our products. It seems that we have been asking you this question for an eternity, but plans for 'The Big Carrot' were first mooted over two years ago and there is still nothing to show for it. What stage are we at now? "Well the project is still growing but so are the costs. Funding of 'The Carrot' has slowed progress and it is back with design engineers at present.

I personally believe that 'The Big Carrot' will be a promotional benefit in more ways than one to the whole community. I will be pushing for 'The Big Carrot' to be erected and with the support of the growers 1 hope that the current lack of funds will be alleviated. We are currently negotiating with Turners & Growers for further funds, the benefits to them in a marketing sense are obvious and at this stage they are reasonably interested. A site has been approved by the council so there is really ' nothing holding the project back aside from a little more support from local growers and retailers as well as from the wider community." It seems then that the future of 'The Big Carrot' is still very much 'up in the air.' However, with Peter Hammond's enthusiasm still undaunted, the prospect of Ohakune finally having such a landmark is not such a pipe-dream.

Mary Anne

Gill