ISLAND’S SUPPLY

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22198, 7 December 1946, Page 10

ISLAND’S SUPPLY

GISBORNE POTATOES “Almost the whole of the North Island is drawing on Gisborne for early potatoes, and orders have become almost overwhelming,” said a Gisborne merchant to-day, when questioned regarding the potato shortage in Auckland, Wellington and other areas. Information from a reliable source states that there are now no potatoes in the South Island to assist the position in the north. Shortage of shipping space does not enter into the question, as the supplies are not available. It is known that the quality of Gisborne potatoes has been better this year than ever before as growers have become more accustomed to the varieties suiting the district and the working of the crops. .Approximately 650 acres was planted with the early varieties, and it is estimated that about half of that acreage has been dug to date. Sc,me of the yields per acre in the fertile Gisborne district may appear to be staggering to growers in other areas, the average yield being set at stons to the acre. The highest yield probably was that of a Waingake grower, who dug 12 tons to the acre. The Herald’s informant said eight, nine and 10 tons i'o the acre was not uncommon.