Maize harvest slow-going so far

RUNNING LATE: The annual grain maize harvest has started a couple of weeks later than usual this season due to the impact of the weather over summer. But despite the recent cyclones that hammered the district, crops harvested so far have shown average and above average yields. File picture

The grain maize harvest has started and early indications are better-than-expected yields despite the impact of cyclones Hale and Gabrielle.

Some maize paddocks in parts of the region were hard hit by silt and slash as a result of floodwaters from the storms.

Corson Grain started its maize harvest later than usual — towards the end of March.

“We’re running a couple of weeks behind normal and the harvest has been slow-going so far,” company procurement manager Richard Hyland said.

“The crop availability is not really coming on at this early stage.

“Everything is running behind due to the weather over summer, particularly the cyclones.”

Mr Hyland said the yields produced so far had been been average to above average, which was pleasing.

“Our anticipated total tonnage for the season is still up in the air due to the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle.

“Until we get harvesters into the paddocks it will be too difficult to make estimations around the crop impact from the storms,” Mr Hyland said.

Corson Grain is harvesting around Gisborne and Wairoa.

‘We’ll be harvesting through until at least late June this season.”

Viterra regional manager Dave Corrin said it was about 10 percent through its harvest.

“It’s still early stages and too early to predict yields and the impact of the cyclone.

“However, Viterra is working closely with its growers to support maximum crop potential with a timely harvest by utilising our efficient carrier network and drier facilities.”