Torere Macadamias

Growing public knowledge of the health advantages of nuts and dried fruits has been a key driver in the macadamia market's expansion. Macadamia nuts are also used to make macadamia oil, which has become popular among both businesses and consumers. In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in global demand for healthy and nutritious snacks, particularly among the younger generation and the working-class population. People are also migrating away from non-vegetarian protein sources and toward plant-based protein sources.

Torere Macadamia nuts are known for their distinct flavor and high nutritional value. These nuts are grown in optimal conditions that support their growth and ensure that they thrive. The optimal growing conditions for Torere Macadamia nuts include rich, well-draining soils, moderate temperatures, and a consistent supply of water.

The economic benefits of growing Torere Macadamia nuts are significant. This nut has a high demand globally, and its prices are stable. As a result, growers of this crop can expect steady revenue streams, which can be a significant boost to local economies.

In New Zealand, Torere Macadamias led the way in research and testing for commercial, high-yielding falling macadamia nut types. They gained exclusive rights for their imported types, created NZ's largest macadamia plant nursery, and planted the largest orchard of these new specialty macadamia species at Torere. Torere Macadamias employs 8 full-time nursery and orchard personnel at Torere, supervised by their Manager, and 2 full-time and 1 part-time product packaging, sales, and marketing staff in Gisborne.

Torere Macadamia Nursery

Torere Macadamia Nursery is a company that specialises in the production of macadamia nut trees. They grow and sell a wide variety of macadamia nut cultivars, including A4, Kakea, Beaumont, and Makai. In addition to selling macadamia nut trees, they also offer a range of services to help growers get their orchards established and producing quality nuts. These services include site assessment, orchard design and layout, and ongoing support and advice on tree care and management. Overall, Torere Macadamia Nursery is dedicated to producing high-quality macadamia nut trees and providing excellent service to their customers in the macadamia industry.

There are different types of macadamia grown, including Beaumont, Maroochy, and A16. Beaumont is the most common type grown in New Zealand, and it is known for its high yield and excellent quality. Maroochy, on the other hand, is a newer variety that is still being tested, but it shows promise as a high-quality nut. A16 is another type that is known for its excellent flavour, but it is not as widely grown as the other two.

Growing Torere Macadamia nuts can be a profitable venture for farmers who have access to optimal growing conditions. With the right soil, temperature, and water conditions, farmers can expect to grow high-quality nuts that are in great demand globally. Additionally, there are different types of macadamia grown, each with unique qualities that can provide farmers with diverse revenue streams.

Types of Macadamia Nuts - Growing Conditions

Torere Macadamia Nursery is a leading producer of high-quality macadamias, offering a variety of nut cultivars that are suited to different growing conditions.

One of the most popular types of macadamia grown by Torere is the A4 variety, which is known for its large size and rich, buttery flavor. This cultivar thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, and it prefers a slightly acidic pH of around 5.5 to 6.5. A4 macadamias should be planted on a slope of less than 10 degrees, and they require regular watering during dry periods to ensure optimal growth and nut development.

Another popular macadamia variety grown by Torere is the Beaumont cultivar, which is highly prized for its sweet, delicate flavor and crisp texture. This cultivar prefers well-drained soils that are slightly alkaline, with a pH of around 7.0 to 7.5. Beaumont macadamias should be planted on a slope of less than 8 degrees, and they require regular watering to ensure optimal growth and nut development.

The Maroochy cultivar is another type of macadamia grown by Torere, and it is known for its rich, nutty flavor and firm texture. Maroochy macadamias prefer well-draining soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH of around 5.5 to 6.5. This cultivar should be planted on a slope of less than 12 degrees, and it requires regular watering during dry periods to ensure optimal growth and nut development.

In addition to these three cultivars, Torere also offers a range of other macadamia varieties that are suited to different growing conditions. Regardless of the cultivar, however, all macadamias require well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, and they need regular watering to ensure optimal growth and nut development. By following these guidelines, growers can produce high-quality macadamias that are both delicious and nutritious.

Research and nutrition

Torere Macadamias international reputation for having the biggest and best tasting macadamias in the world, now has science validation for having the highest nutritional composition.

Six of Torere Macadamias best varieties were chosen after 35 years of research for analysis of their nutritional composition by Plant and Food Research in 2022 and funded by High Value Nutrition National Science Challenge. The results showed significantly higher concentrations of Vitamin C, B6 and Selenium than imported macadamias. High concentrations of other micro-nutrients include manganese, magnesium and dietary fibre; low in sodium and free from trans fatty acids.

This nutrition data has achieved a first in NZ and will be published in the NZ Food Composition Database for inclusion on NZ macadamia Nutrition Info Panels (NIP), replacing the existing Australian nutrition data on NZ macadamia food labels.

The nutrition results are so unique and significant that Plant and Food Research are conducting research in 2023 to identify how and why and to replicate Torere Macadamias growing conditions and environment for all their new growers to achieve the same high nutrition results.

Together Plant and Food Research and Torere Macadamias will develop the NZ template for growing Torere Macadamia varieties to replace existing data that is currently based on the old NZ picking varieties or on overseas grown macadamias.

The high concentration of nutrients found in the Torere Macadamia kernels are also expected in high concentrations in the husks and shells. The Reddit Institute has a 2-year research project approved for a PHD student to start in 2023. Functional food and high value oil extraction from the husks and shells add to Torere Macadamias future product development range.

Commercial macadamia varieties and characteristics

Torere Macadamia's foresight in 1983 to research commercial dropping macadamia varieties extended over 30 years to identify the best varieties to grow on her own land. These specialist varieties now form the basis for the development of a new, viable and sustainable commercial macadamia industry in NZ. Early results have already exceeded macadamia harvest size and quality not previously experienced in NZ.

Torere Macadamias Limited trialled 42 varieties including the GT’s and other New Zealand varieties alongside imported Australian, Hawaiian and South African cultivars of Tetraphylla, Integrifolia and Hybrids.

They selected nine varieties with superior production, kernel quality and yield per hectare. A choice from the nine varieties that are relatively GVB resistant, is recommended to provide good pollination, a range of harvest times and kernel styles e.g high % of large and small whole kernels (style 0 and 1) and halves (3 and 4); to obtain the best market value.

Growers attending the Torere Macadamia Field Days are able to view these nine superior commercial macadamia varieties and obtain comprehensive information to assist with their macadamia planting plans.

Torere Macadamias have sole propagation rights for all the varieties they imported and trialled and maintain a register of those varieties in New Zealand. Growers are required to sign Confidentiality and Non-propagation agreements on purchase of their trees.

Torere Macadamias Limited commercial macadamia varieties display the following characteristics:

• Dropping – the macadamia nuts drop to the ground when mature and ready for harvest either manually or mechanically off the ground or can be picked directly off the tree.
• GVB Tolerant – these varieties have been chosen for their relative tolerance to GVB damage.
• Increased macadamia production – small, open or upright macadamia trees bearing fruit close to the tree trunk available for high density planting. i.e. more macadamia trees and more production per hectare.
• Increased return – high percentage large and small macadamia whole kernel (Style size 0 & 1) and high macadamia kernel recovery (35-40%) is the measure of viability and productivity per hectare – not NIS (nut in shell) weight per tree. Growing the best kernel per ha is what you are paid for – not the heaviest weight which is the shell.
• Suitable for smaller lots of land – these top producing macadamias planted at medium (6mx6m) or high (6mx3m) density, is an attractive option for smaller land blocks where one orchard contractor can easily manage several small blocks of macadamia trees within a region.
• Low maintenance – open and/or upright shape do not require heavy pruning, are excellent pollinators and require minimal maintenance other than mowing, fertilising and harvesting which can all be done mechanically.
• Quality kernel recovery – macadamia variety options for whole kernels (both large and small) and half kernels.
• Harvest options – with varieties that drop early, mid-year or late. Cool tolerant varieties are also available.
• Nutritional Supremacy – the nutritional properties of macadamias are far superior to other nuts.
• High oil content – 70% plus enables processing at high temperatures for a better quality macadamia nut product.

Products

Torere Macadamia Nursery is a renowned producer of high-quality macadamia nuts. They grow, harvest, and process macadamia nuts to create a range of edible products. Some of the products that Torere Macadamia Nursery produces include raw macadamia nuts, roasted macadamia nuts, salted macadamia nuts, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, macadamia butter, and macadamia oil. They also produce Dukkah, Crumb mix, Butter, Pesto, Gluten-free products, Museli, and Museli Bars. These products are not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits.

Macadamia Industry in Aotearoa

Macadamia nut farming is a relatively new industry in New Zealand, with the first trees planted in the 1960s. Today, the industry continues to grow and expand, with an estimated 1.3 million trees planted across the country.

The favourable climate and soil conditions in New Zealand have led to high-quality macadamias that are in high demand in both national and international markets. The majority of macadamia farms are located in the North Island, with the Bay of Plenty and Northland being the most significant regions for production.

Despite the industry's growth, there are still challenges that growers face, including the high upfront costs of establishing an orchard, pests and diseases that can affect yields, and the high labor requirements for harvesting and processing the nuts. However, with increasing demand for macadamias, the industry shows no signs of slowing down, and new growers are continually entering the market.

The NZ macadamia industry has never reached it’s full potential due to low producing (stick tight) varieties that dominated plantings from 1970-1990. The NZ Macadamia Society (NZMS) was established for and by growers of mainly the Beaumont picking varieties; many of whom struggled to survive and gradually left the industry.

The GT’s and PA’s were the 1st dropping varieties introduced 1980-1990. Both were highly susceptible to Green Vege Bug (GVB) with damage destroying 50% plus of the crops – this resulted in several large orchards being bulldozed. Remaining orchards with these varieties need to spray for GVB.

As a result of the low producing varieties and GVB damage, the NZMS lost most of its members and almost folded in 2016. The near demise of the NZMS didn’t reflect the emergence of a new commercial industry created by Torere Macadamias increased plantings of the new researched and proven productive dropping varieties.

To identify initiatives to grow the industry Vanessa circulated a survey to growers in early 2017 and the results overwhelmingly cited ‘lack of industry body support for growers’. Most growers weren’t aware the industry body was barely surviving and that the dropping varieties had overtaken the picking varieties and would clearly dominate macadamia supplies to the NZ market by 2018. Vanessa felt it was time to step-up and bring about change to the NZMS as the industry body; to include and provide support for growers of their dropping varieties.

Vanessa is now the NZMS Vice President – her aim is to grow the industry and introduce changes and a culture to accept and support growers to ensure the industry will grow and finally achieve it’s full potential.

Setting up a Macadamia Nursery in Aotearoa

Macadamia is a high-value crop that requires specific growing conditions and careful management. The initial setup costs and overheads for growing macadamias in New Zealand can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the orchard, the location, and the equipment needed.

A significant part of the initial setup costs is the land preparation, which includes clearing, fencing, and installing irrigation systems. The cost of planting macadamias can also be high, as it involves purchasing young trees, soil preparation, and planting.

Other overheads to consider include ongoing maintenance costs, such as fertilizers, pest control, and labor for pruning, harvesting, and processing the nuts. Additionally, marketing and distribution costs can also be significant, especially for smaller growers who need to establish relationships with wholesalers and retailers.

Overall, the initial setup costs and overheads for growing macadamias in New Zealand can be significant, but the high value of the crop and the increasing global demand for macadamias make it a potentially profitable investment.

Planting and harvesting

Planting and harvesting macadamias in a nursery involves several steps that require careful attention to detail. Here is an overview of the process:

• Site selection: Choose a location that receives full sunlight and has well-draining soil. A pH level between 5.0 and 6.5 is ideal for macadamia trees.
• Soil preparation: Clear the area of weeds, rocks, and debris. Amend the soil with organic matter and fertilizer to improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
• Propagation: Macadamia trees are propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they germinate. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature trees and rooted in a rooting hormone.
• Planting: Once the seedlings or cuttings have developed a strong root system, they can be planted in the nursery. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly.
• Care: Macadamia trees require regular watering, fertilization, and pruning to promote healthy growth. Pests and diseases should be monitored and treated promptly.
• Harvesting: Macadamia nuts are ready to harvest when they fall from the tree or when the husk splits open. Collect the nuts and remove the husks. Dry the nuts in the sun for several days.

With proper care and attention, macadamias can be grown successfully in a nursery and provide a bountiful harvest.

Storage Requirements

Macadamia nuts require careful handling and storage after harvesting to ensure their quality and longevity. In a nursery setup, the nuts should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to prevent mold and insect damage. Ideally, the storage temperature should be maintained between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit with a relative humidity of around 50 percent.

It is important to avoid exposing the nuts to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can cause them to spoil. The nuts should be placed in containers that allow for air circulation and should not be tightly packed. Additionally, it is a good practice to inspect the nuts regularly to detect any signs of damage or spoilage. Properly stored, macadamia nuts can last for several months, retaining their flavor and nutritional value.

Pest and Disease Management

A macadamia nut nursery can be at risk of various pests and diseases, which can cause significant damage to the young plants and affect their growth and yield. Some of the common pests that may infest macadamia nut trees include mites, thrips, and mealybugs. These pests can cause leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and defoliation. Additionally, diseases such as Phytophthora root rot and bacterial blight can cause root and stem rot, and leaf spots, respectively.

To prevent and manage these pest and disease risks, it is important to implement a comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) program. This approach involves using a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods to manage pests and diseases. For example, cultural practices such as maintaining good sanitation and hygiene in the nursery, selecting disease-resistant varieties, and proper irrigation can help prevent pest and disease infestations. Additionally, biological control methods such as using predatory insects and beneficial microbes can help control pest populations.

When chemical control methods are necessary, it is important to use them judiciously and apply them according to the label instructions. This can help minimize the risk of pesticide residues and reduce the potential for resistance development. It is also important to regularly monitor the nursery for signs of pest and disease infestations and take appropriate action promptly.

Overall, implementing an IPM program that utilises a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods can help minimise pest and disease risks in a macadamia nut nursery.

Costs and Returns

Macadamia nuts are a premium product in New Zealand, with high demand both locally and internationally. The costs and returns for the macadamia market in NZ can vary depending on various factors, including the orchard's location, size, and yield.

The initial investment in macadamia orchards can be significant, with costs including land, trees, irrigation, and infrastructure. However, once established, macadamia orchards can produce high yields for up to 50 years, making them a profitable long-term investment.

The returns from macadamia orchards can be significant, with prices ranging from $7 to $10 per kilogram for kernel-only nuts and up to $30 per kilogram for in-shell nuts. However, it is important to note that the price can vary depending on the quality of the nuts and the global market demand.

Furthermore, the macadamia market is growing in popularity, with New Zealand's production expected to increase by 50% over the next five years. This growth is driven by the high demand for macadamia nuts in Asia, particularly China.

In conclusion, the macadamia market in New Zealand can be a profitable investment, with high returns for established orchards. However, it is important to consider the initial investment costs and the market demand before investing in a macadamia orchard.

Compliance

Macadamia nurseries in New Zealand are subject to various compliance regulations that they must follow to ensure their operations are legal and sustainable.

One of the main compliance requirements for macadamia nurseries is obtaining the necessary licenses and permits from the local council and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). These permits are required to ensure the nursery is operating in an environmentally responsible manner and adhering to biosecurity standards.

Another key compliance requirement is maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all plant material and their movements. This is important for tracking the spread of pests and diseases and ensuring the traceability of plant material.

Macadamia nurseries must also comply with health and safety regulations to ensure the safety of their employees and visitors. This includes providing adequate training and personal protective equipment, as well as maintaining a safe working environment.

In addition, macadamia nurseries must comply with various laws and regulations related to employment, taxation, and business operations. These requirements can vary depending on the size of the nursery and the number of employees.

Overall, compliance is an important aspect of running a macadamia nursery in New Zealand, and nurseries must stay up-to-date with the latest regulations to ensure their operations are legal and sustainable.

Support, data sources and networks

Torere Macadamia Nursery has received support from several organisations, both locally and internationally. One of the main supporters of the nursery is the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). The MPI has provided funding for research and development, as well as for the promotion of the macadamia industry in New Zealand.

The nursery has also received support from the New Zealand Macadamia Society, which provides networking opportunities for macadamia growers and helps to promote the industry within the country. In addition, Torere Macadamia Nursery has received support from the Australian Macadamia Society, which has provided technical expertise and assistance in growing macadamias.

Furthermore, Torere Macadamia Nursery has established partnerships with several businesses and organisations in the Macadamia industry, such as the Macadamia Growers Association of South Africa and the Hawaii Macadamia Nut Association. These partnerships have helped the nursery to expand its knowledge and expertise in macadamia growing and to establish a wider network of contacts within the industry.

Overall, the support received by Torere Macadamia Nursery has been instrumental in the growth and success of the nursery and the macadamia industry in New Zealand.

If you're interested in setting up a macadamia nursery in New Zealand, there are several resources available that can help you get started.

Overall, there are many resources available to support those interested in setting up a macadamia nursery in New Zealand. By utilising these links and support networks, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your goals in the industry.

 

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