June 30, 2025
New Zealand onion growers are reporting exceptional crop quality and yields for the 2024–25 harvest. Both growers and exporters are optimistic about the calibre of onions grown this year, even as global market conditions present commercial challenges.
“Game of Two Halves” Yields High-Quality Results
In Pukekohe, Bharat Jivan of Jivan Produce describes the onion season as a “game of two halves.” The first half of the season brought favourable growing conditions that helped crops thrive well into the harvest window. Like Canterbury, the region benefited from cooler temperatures that, paired with a robust strategy, helped keep Stemphylium Leaf Blight under control.
“Crops looked healthy right up to the point of lifting,” says Jivan. “The harvested crop has generally been of good yields and exceptional quality.”
He notes that dry summer conditions during harvest were particularly helpful, enabling growers to lift crops efficiently with minimal disruption. “There were hardly any breaks in the harvest and store sheds filled up fast with high quality product,” he adds.
Better Than Expected Growing Conditions
Dominic Cosgrove from Turley Farms in Canterbury describes this season as “back to front” in many ways. The region experienced an unusual predominance of southerly and easterly weather patterns, which kept temperatures lower and rainfall higher than usual. Particularly in the second half of the growing season.
However, the early growing period was favourable. “Regular spring rains with good planting windows meant crops were planted in good time and established well,” Cosgrove explains. These conditions allowed growers to get ahead with weed control and crop protection, laying the groundwork for strong plant health.
Cosgrove reports that “generally yields are average or above average, despite the cooler season. Skin quality is pleasing and there is a good product to send to market.”
Quality Sets the Stage for Future Success
New Zealand’s onion industry can take pride in the consistency and quality of this year’s crop. For both domestic and international buyers, the 2024–25 season stands out for its strong skins, healthy bulbs, and above-average yields. A true testament to the resilience and adaptability of our Kiwi growers.
As the remainder of the harvest is brought in and curing continues, attention will shift to storage, marketing, and tapping into emerging trade opportunities. If and when the market does shift, growers are confident they’ll be ready with a premium product.
“It’s been a season that’s tested us,” says Cosgrove. “But the end result is a good-looking onion crop that we’re proud of.”
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