How Helicopters Are Helping Central Otago’s Cherry Orchards

If you’ve ever bitten into a juicy Central Otago cherry, you know it’s something special. But what you might not know is how much effort goes into making sure those cherries arrive at your table in perfect condition. One of the biggest threats? Rain.

Rain might seem harmless, but for cherry growers, it’s a serious problem. Too much water on the fruit can cause it to swell and split, making it unsellable. That’s where helicopters come in like the ones we use at Central Heliwork Ltd. We’re here to keep cherries safe, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Why Rain And Cherries Don’t Mix

When cherries get wet, water can sit on their skin, soaking in and causing the fruit to swell and crack. Once that happens, they’re no good for fresh markets, and growers take a big hit.

Covers and drainage systems help a bit, but they can only do so much when heavy rain strikes. That’s why many orchardists call in helicopters for backup.

What Helicopters Do

Helicopters are more than just rain-fighting machines; they’re versatile tools for tackling various orchard challenges. On frosty nights, they can circulate air to prevent frost from settling on delicate blossoms, protecting crops from damage. They’re also incredibly efficient for applying sprays, ensuring even coverage across large areas while saving time and reducing waste. Additionally, helicopters excel at transporting equipment and supplies, making them indispensable for remote or hard-to-reach orchards. Whether it’s protecting, maintaining, or supporting your orchard, helicopters are a true game-changer.

Helicopters act fast to blow water off cherries using the powerful downdraft from their rotor blades. It’s like giving the orchard a quick blow-dry. This keeps water from soaking into the fruit, reducing the chances of splitting.

Plus, helicopters are perfect for getting to orchards in remote or hilly spots. They’re quick, efficient, and can handle big jobs right after the rain stops.

Let’s keep your cherries perfect

At Central Heliwork, we’ve got years of experience helping orchardists protect their crops. Paul, our lead pilot, knows the region inside and out and brings a steady hand to every job. Whether it’s drying rain, fighting frost, or handling other orchard tasks, we’ve got the tools and know-how to get it done safely and efficiently.

Rain happens, but it doesn’t have to ruin your harvest. With Central Heliwork on your side, you can protect your cherries and keep them market ready. Give us a call today to see how we can help with your orchard.

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