The Peanut (Arachis hypogaea), also commonly called ground nut is a summer growing legume that has been identified as a potential cash crop for Northland Farmers.
Peanuts have been grown in New Zealand in the 1980’s but the enormous labour needs at harvest have prevented large scale production. With the availability of modern machinery large scale peanut production is now achievable. The Far North District Council and Northland INC have identified the Mid North as a possible site for a peanut processing factory. This study looks at peanut production from a world perspective right through to the opportunities for New Zealand and Northland farmers.
The data from this study shows that a peanut industry could be a viable option for Northland farmers through growing and marketing a premium product that would attract a premium price.
Reuben Carter
