As the cherry season begins, Central Otago orchardists are hoping the rain abates so they can meet Christmas demand.
Jackson Orchards in Cromwell, which is generally one of the first growers to pick in Central Otago, began its harvest of early cherry varieties more than a week ago. Co-owner Mark Jackson said the crop was "looking good".
"With some hot weather we thought we might be starting a little earlier, but it ended up being about normal."
Recent rain did not seem to have caused damage, he said.
"We got a bit before we started picking, and some more recently, but luckily the weather was cold. We're hoping that's the last of it."