Clinton Scott says the fruit are not only delicious to eat, they yield exquisite long-lasting stems for floristry. Photo / Glenn Jeffrey
A Northland couple have set up New Zealand's first red pineapple farm - and plan to grow the delicacy as a cash crop.
Wendy Howard and her husband Clinton Scott have started their plantation at Rangiputa near Mangonui.
They say this is the first time red pineapples have
been grown commercially in New Zealand.
The pineapples sweet, fragrant fruit that have long been a symbol of hospitality and prosperity, grow well in southern climates. Mr Scott says the pineapples can withstand drought, wind, full sun, or shade and even a light frost.
As each individual plant matures it sends out an intense pink bloom, swelling into eye-catching red pineapple.
The fruit are sweet and juicy with a tangy twist and are excellent eaten fresh, dried or juiced.
There is additional market potential in the blooms, which appear on slender stalks and, according to Mr Scott, make exquisite long-lasting stems for floristry.
The couple are looking to develop a liqueur from the pineapple and are keen to look at opportunities with florists and possibly in the cosmetic industry.
