This unusual half-red, half-yellow apple was found in a batch of Red Braeburn apples in mid-May at the Sunshine Corner market in Christchurch.
Also known as chimera apple, this apple is the result of a genetic mutation that causes it to form from cells carrying two different genetic foundations.
It is believed that for every 1 million apples, only 1 apple has this phenomenon.
The store owner, Ms. Heather, said that this apple was famous locally. "Many people came home and told their wives or husbands, but no one believed it, so they went back with their loved ones to see it with their own eyes. Many people expressed interest and took pictures of it. This apple really sparked curiosity and imagination of everyone" - she told the New Zealand Herald.
The store owner also said that this is the first time she has seen such a chimera apple. "We have been doing business for many years, never seen one like this" - she said.
She added that some people even ask to touch apples for good luck before participating in competitions.
Currently, the store is storing the apple in the refrigerator. However, the store has not yet decided what to do with this rare apple: Should it continue to be preserved or split in half to see what's inside.
