NZ’s First National Watermelon Month is Born
National Watermelon Month will take place for the first time this year from 1 - 29 February, to celebrate one of the
nation’s most popular summer fruits. Led by LeaderBrand, an innovative, Kiwi owned producer of fresh fruit and
vegetables, a number of initiatives have been planned to help New Zealanders take part in the celebrations.
“Nothing says summer in New Zealand like a delicious, juicy watermelon,” says Bevan Roach, LeaderBrand Marketing
Manager. “It is also one of the most guilt-free foods you can get. It has excellent levels of vitamins A and C, and
there are only 80 calories in two cups. Perfect for people wanting to eat clean after the excess of the Christmas
holidays!
“We think it’s an iconic New Zealand summer fruit that is well worth celebrating,” he adds. “We’re hoping National
Watermelon Month will convince more Kiwis to pick up a watermelon during their next shop. With watermelon growing at its
peak (it’s available January – March), it’s also the ideal time to get creative with this refreshing fruit. It doesn’t
just have to be eaten by the slice – it is also fantastic in salads, salsas, desserts, cocktails and all manner of other
tasty summer recipes.”
New Zealanders will be encouraged to take part in National Watermelon Month through a series of contests and giveaways
on Instagram and Facebook. Prizes will include supermarket vouchers and watermelon seeds so fans can have a go at
growing their own watermelons from scratch. A number of watermelon recipes will be developed especially for the occasion
and New Zealand bloggers will also be able to enter their watermelon themed recipes into a special competition during
National Watermelon Month.
ENDS