Growers of the first hemp crops in New Zealand are claiming an 80% success rate.


Farmers have been experimenting with growing hemp since they were given the green light by the government last year. The Hemp Industry Association chairman Mac McIntosh said the reported 80% success rate was surprisingly good, given that the farmers are inexperienced at this stage.


Within a few seasons the hemp industry in New Zealand will gain maturity, he indicated. Growers currently still have to pay out to support the trials. Most of the harvested hemp will be used in health food and to make insulation bats.