H&J Roberts picker Benny Smith, of Earnscleugh, on the job yesterday during the first day of cherry season. PHOTO: ADAM BURNSCentral Otago’s varied weather this has not hampered cherry orchardists as the season kicks into gear. Most local growers have begun picking across the region and rain and wind has not daunted owners. Earnscleugh orchardist Harry Roberts, of H&J Roberts, said the rain had caused slight cracking with the early batches. Sarita Orchard manager Matt Blanch, of Cromwell, said the orchard was about 10 days away from picking.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 05, 2019 15:32 UTC