One of New Zealand's top grower-shippers of apples has reported strong demand across a range of Northern Hemisphere markets, citing exports as "well ahead" of what they were this time last year.

This has been the case despite a season delay, with Mr Apple observing positive market conditions in North America, Europe, the Middle East and India.

"While last season was a slightly later start, when you compare packouts vs days packing, we are seeing even stronger demand in 2014 versus 2013," Mr Apple retail sales manager Ben McLeod said in a release.

"Growing and weather related issues in other Southern Hemisphere apple production regions have meant less availability of apples in total. As a result, we are seeing increased demand for apples out of New Zealand."

Wholesale sales manager Andy McDougall said quality out of the key growing region of Hawke's Bay has been excellent.

"When you look at the weather the region has enjoyed in the lead up to 2014 and right through to present, we’ve experienced almost perfect apple growing conditions," McDougall said.

Our characteristic warm summer days, cooling coastal breezes and ideal amounts of rain have created great quality apples. Colour is fantastic and the eating quality – in terms of juice and crunchiness – is superb.

The company says it exports 25% of the national apple crop, and in a bid to better service the 60 countries it supplies to, Mr Apple has invested NZ$20 million (US$17.4 million) in the past five years in orchard regrafting, packhouse technology and coolstores.

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