Survey of 1988 spray diary/maturity test procedures used by export kiwifruit growers

This project was undertaken on behalf of the New Zealand Kiwifruit Marketing Board to fulfill the stage II course requirements of the 1988 New Zealand Rural Leadership course. The origin of the project had its beginnings back in 1986 when the New Zealand Kiwifruit Marketing Board (NZKMB) agreed to introduce new maturity testing procedures for the industry. The new test was introduced following consultation with and advice from the DSIR. Ongoing research since the maturity test was introduced in 1980, had developed a less variable test which the NZKMB agreed would provide more consistent results for the industry. However, come harvest time 1987 problems arose with the new testing procedures particularly on young vines. As a result of those problems, the NZKMB announced on 4 May 1987 “that the new maturity testing procedure would remain in position. But growers may use the old test procedures if they wish and notify NZKMB maturity receptionists of their decision”.