CA Systems has established itself as a pivotal player in atmosphere control technology through its collaboration with ISOLCELL Italy and Britkin. The Warren Street, Hastings-based company is delivering state-of-the-art controlled atmosphere systems that are revolutionising long-term fruit storage capabilities across the country. CA Systems, the official New Zealand agent for ISOLCELL's Controlled Atmosphere equipment, has been instrumental in providing turnkey solutions for both the pip fruit and brewing industries. With its team of qualified technicians utilising post harvest science competency, it helps apple coolstore operators maximise fruit pack outs and maintain optimal quality during storage. The partnership with Britkin has proven particularly successful. Recent projects showcase Britkin's growing specialised knowledge in creating bespoke turnkey solutions, with completed coolstore hallways featuring gas-tight controlled atmosphere doors supplied by CA Systems. Each installation includes comprehensive staff training, detailed Standard Operating Procedures and all necessary compliance certification. "Focus on environmental factors that affect fruit quality is fundamental in day-to-day CA site management," explains Paul Barker, Managing Director of CA Systems, who has dedicated most of his adult life to the apple industry. His extensive experience has provided valuable insight into how controlled atmosphere systems can significantly extend fruit shelf life. The company's impact is impressive in scale. In Hawke's Bay alone, approximately 65 ISOLCELL machines (CO2 Scrubbers and N2 Generators) control more than 200 CA rooms. CA Systems also manages and maintains an additional 40 rooms with older machinery from other suppliers. In Nelson, 40 CA rooms operate with cutting-edge ISOLCELL equipment. ISOLCELL also works closely with Plant & Food Research since it provided them with the world’s first custom made lab facilities over 30 years ago. Currently Plant & Food Research use ISOLCELL’s state of the art equipment at both Mount Albert and Havelock North sites. Paul says infrastructure development is crucial for the continued growth of New Zealand's pip fruit industry, creating wealth and employment opportunities throughout the community. The North Island's Bay of Plenty region has also benefited significantly, with nearly 250 machines preserving valuable kiwifruit - both Hayward and Gold varieties - spread across at least 30 different customer sites. Established in 2021, CA Systems was founded after recognising the remarkable potential of ISOLCELL's technology. Although originally based solely in Hastings, Cyclone Gabrielle prompted diversification, with the company now supporting industries beyond horticulture including beverage production through specialised nitrogen generators and control systems. Pauls says a key advantage of CA Systems' offerings is efficiency, with ISOLCELL equipment typically up to 100% more efficient than alternative solutions. The company prides itself on planning, installing and optimising technology to preserve value, recognising that every business has different objectives which are supported by a custom solution. Recent projects in Nelson and Auckland have expanded CA Systems' presence nationwide. As a family business owned by Paul and wife Julie, it employs a combination of permanent staff and contract engineers to install and maintain gas control systems throughout New Zealand. Paul considers that the partnership between CA Systems, ISOLCELL, and Britkin represents a significant advancement in New Zealand's agricultural technology infrastructure. By implementing these innovative atmosphere control systems, it is enabling the country's fruit producers to maintain higher quality produce for longer periods, enhancing competitiveness in both domestic and export markets. Key player in atmosphere control technology
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