Can science safeguard the future of our favourite fruit? Step into a colourful digital orchard and discover how scientists are helping fruit trees adapt to a changing climate.
OPENING FRI 25 SEP
TĀMAKI HERENGA WAKA GALLERY, GROUND FLOOR
FREE WITH MUSEUM ENTRY
Growing the perfect piece of fruit takes more than sunshine and rain. Fruit trees need enough cold winter weather to trigger flowering, before those flowers can grow into the apples, berries and other fruit we love to eat.
But as our climate gets warmer, those important winter chills are becoming harder to come by. Too much heat can also affect the colour and taste of the fruit we grow.
So, how can we help our orchards thrive in a warmer future?
Step into The Future of our Fruit, an interactive digital experience exploring the science behind the fruit in your lunchbox.
Discover the hidden power of plant genes that fruit trees can use to cope with a changing climate and make our fruit healthier. Explore how different traits can help trees become more resilient, and see what it takes to grow fruit for the future.
Created in partnership with the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao and Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
The Future of our Fruit is an interactive digital experience exploring how scientists are helping fruit trees adapt to a changing climate. Step into a colourful digital orchard and discover the science behind the fruit we grow and eat.
Explore a digital orchard, interact with fruit trees and discover how different plant traits can help them cope with warmer conditions. You’ll learn what fruit trees need to flower, grow and produce healthy fruit, and how science could help protect future harvests.
Yes. The Future of our Fruit has been designed as a fun, accessible introduction to plant and climate science for children and families. Younger visitors can enjoy exploring and interacting with the digital orchard, while older children can delve deeper into the science.
The Future of our Fruit is included with Museum General Admission. Find out more about our tickets and admission here.