TROOPS MAKE GARDENS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 78, 30 June 1943, Page 3

TROOPS MAKE GARDENS

CHANGE FROM TINNED FOODS TONGAN FRUIT SUPPLY The New Zealand troops in Tonga have taken up gardening, and a letter from a senior New Zealand officer states that already a 100-acre plot is producing many kinds of vegetables. “It is unavoidable that in the Pacific area much of the ration is of the tinned variety,” he writes. “Realising that the average New Zealander is largely a fresh food eater, the authorities wisely decided to supplement tinned foods with fresh vegetables, fruit and fish. A large area is already in production, and such vegetables as beans, peas, cucumbers, lettuce, beetroot and tomatoes have already been issued to units. Local vegetables, such as yams and kumeras, have also been planted, not to mention bananas and pineapples. Nearly 100 acres are already in production and when the plot is in full swing there should be no shortage of green vegetables so much appreciated by New Zealanders. “Local fruits are in reasonable supply —a stick of 30 bananas costing about one shilling. Paw paws, oranges and mandarines are now finishing, but have added to the variety of the menu for the last two months. “Fish is also a very acceptable dish for most of us. Large fish traps were set up in suitable areas. The catches so far have not allowed a very frequent distribution to the whole force, but as the best fishing season is approaching and more traps are to be constructed, it is hoped that the aim of a weekly distribution to all ranks will be achieved.”