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These were disposed of through the ordinary marketing channels. During the period under review the Branch supervised the distribution of 247,144 dozen eggs, as compared with 250,313 dozen for the same period last year, a decrease of approximately 1J per cent. Although this Branch has never handled large quantities of lemons, only 75 cases, a marked reduction on previous years, were received. In order to utilize the assembly, shed during the off-season, 312 tons of mixed produce were stored. Gisborne This Branch commenced operations in May, 1945, and under its supervision the Gisborne Citrus Shed was operated by the Division's agent, packing out 1,316 cases of lemons during the period under review, as against 1,743 cases for a similar period last year. This reduction is accounted for by the drought experienced in the Gisborne area. This drought will also affect production next year. Problems and inquiries relating to honey, agar, eggs, citrus fruits, maize, and pip-fruits were also handled. Nelson The Nelson Branch is concerned mainly with the assembly, distribution, storage of apples and pears and the processing of apples at the Motueka Processing-plant. Difficulties were again experienced in transporting apples and pears from the Nelson district to other centres of New Zealand. Dunedin The major activity for Dunedin is the assembly and marketing of apples and pears in Central Otago. In addition to this activity, supervision of imported fruits distribution and marketing of eggs were also carried out.

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