As summer hits its stride, New Zealanders are in for a delightful surprise as watermelons are in abundance this week, offering unbeatable prices that won't burn a hole in your wallet. 

Some supermarkets are selling these juicy delights for $5 each or lower, it's a perfect time for Kiwis to indulge in their favorite summer treat before the season ends. 

Gordon McPhail, General Manager of Farm at LeaderBrand, attributes their bountiful harvest to consistently high temperatures in Gisborne, creating optimal conditions for watermelon cultivation. 

"After a challenging year of unprecedented weather, this summer has brought a welcome change, resulting in an abundance of watermelons from our harvest.

"We're currently in the peak of the season, and the prices reflect the surplus, making it an ideal time for consumers to buy, in fact at these prices you’d be wanting to buy two!" 

Summer has brought an abundance of watermelons to be harvested. Photo: LeaderBrand.

Highlighting their commitment to innovation and testing hundreds of variants of watermelons, Gordon says the micro seeded variety is designed to provide a hassle-free eating experience. 

“This year, we’ve grown a variety of melons, but we’re most proud of our micro seeded variety. It’s the closest to a delicious, pip-less melon that we can grow.  

"You’ll no longer need to flick or spit out the pips with this hassle-free melon, it’s the easiest and juiciest melon you’ll taste this summer.”  

Recognised for their refreshing taste and hydrating properties, watermelons are a quintessential summer fruit enjoyed in various ways.

Whether consumed on their own, added to salads, or incorporated into beverages, the affordability this season ensures accessibility for all consumers. 

"We understand the importance of making nutritious and delicious fruits accessible to everyone.

"This season, Kiwis can relish in their favorite summer fruit without worrying about the cost," says Gordon.  

Watermelons can be added to salads. Photo: LeaderBrand.

While watermelons are celebrated for their pink, succulent flesh, the often-overlooked watermelon rind holds untapped potential. 

“Surprisingly, the white portion of the rind can be eaten and tastes a lot like cucumber. When cooked the rind transforms into a tender, sautéed consistency which is great in stir-fry's, tacos and salads.” 

Cooking with watermelon rind not only presents an opportunity to minimize food waste it also offers health benefits. The rind of the watermelon is packed with fiber and antioxidants.  

LeaderBrand watermelons are in stores now, look out for the stickers for the micro seeded variety if pips aren’t your thing. 

Summer has brought an abundance of watermelons to be harvested. Photo: LeaderBrand.