The general essence of this report was to establish whether cherries are a viable diversification on a sheep, beef and deer farm at Teviot in the Teviot valley ( Roxburgh ), Central Otago. This document was also produced to assist others who may be thinking of establishing a cherry orchard and require a reference or starting point to start their investigations, giving them an overview of the present status of the industry. This report aims to compare and analyse the cost structures and returns from traditional cherry growing methods as compared to newer dwarf or "Bonsai" type methods.

The New Zealand Kellogg Rural Leaders Programme develops emerging agribusiness leaders to help shape the future of New Zealand agribusiness and rural affairs. Lincoln University has been involved with this leaders programme since 1979 when it was launched with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation, USA.