Due to the pandemic, the local fruit farmers faced challenges in exporting their products, which resulted in stagnant sales. As a result, Abbess Manshin suggested organizing an apple picking activity to ease the burden on farmers. Additionally, these fresh apples can be given as a blessing to the people at Buddha’s Birthday Celebration.
On 28th March 2022, the BLIA North Island organised an apple picking activity in West Auckland. Participants includes the Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian, Venerable Miaoyu, President of the BLIA North Island Yulin Ku and nearly 20 BLIA members.
Upon arrival, the team received a warm welcome from the orchard owner. The owner guided the team to the fruit picking area. He explained the NZ Gala-Rose variety that planted in the orchard, which taste very crisp and juicy. BLIA members work together to pick the apples efficiently. After a day of effort, over 300 kilograms of apples were harvested, and it took four cars to bring it back to the temple.
The Advisors of BLIA North Island, Han and Jennifer Liang shared that, it was a great opportunity to relax the mind and body through outing in a beautiful day with the lead of Venerable. As most of the people had been stay at home for some time due to the pandemic. The presidents of the BLIA Sub-Chapter 2, Pauline, and BLIA Sub-Chapter 4, Annie Chang, expressed that the apple picking activity was truly enjoyable and meaningful. They were happy to help relieve the farmer’s economic pressure and able to share the delicious apples with others. The orchard owner also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the BLIA North Island for their support of local farmers during these difficult and challenging time.
