Taking it whole

While you can enjoy kiwifruit as fresh juices and in salsas, gelatos, smoothies, and desserts, the best way to obtain the maximum nutritional value of the fruit is to eat fresh, well cared for kiwifruit, says Drummond.

"Look for fruit that is semi-firm to touch, unblemished and with no soft, bruised spots or wrinkled skin," she explains. A firm kiwifruit will normally take three to five days to ripen unless you place it in a paper bag with an apple or a banana - fruits that give out chemicals that hasten the ripening of other fruits.

"A ripe kiwifruit will yield gently to your fingers when you press it, and can be eaten immediately or stored in the refrigerator for a further two to three weeks," she adds.

But if you haven't tried combining kiwifruit with other foods on your platter before, try having it with your saut'd seafood or lamb. It is a good and very tasty start.

The writer's trip to New Zealand was sponsored by Zespri International Limited.

-The Star/Asia News Network