Recent research has shown the antioxidants found in tomatoes may be responsible for protecting people against cancer. They are packed with vitamins, fibre, folic acid and potassium.

Pukekohe tomato grower and New Zealand's Young Horticulturist of the Year Ben Smith, 29, is passionate about the fruit.

Tomatoes are in abundant supply at this time of year and are the perfect produce when catering for the family, particularly for those fabulous festive salads to accompany hams or leftover turkey, he says.

There are numerous varieties in an array of shapes, sizes, tastes and colours. Standard round tomatoes remain New Zealand's favourite, with the plum, outdoor, cherry, low acid and vine tomatoes becoming increasingly popular.

To choose the best tomatoes, look for the deep-red varieties, because the redder the tomato, the sweeter the fruit, Smith says.

CLICK HERE for some tasty Beekist tomato recipes.