Cyclone Gabrielle Hits New Zealand’s Fruit Bowl; Kiwi Growers Remain Optimistic
On 14th February 2023, Cyclone Gabrielle made landfall in the North Island of New Zealand, significantly impacting Hawke’s Bay, a key growing region for Pink Lady® in New Zealand.
While some growers suffered no or minor damage, others saw their entire livelihoods destroyed overnight. Some 4,000 hectares of Hawke’s Bay apple orchards were affected by the cyclone, and analysis of the damage to apple orchards in Hawke’s Bay shows nearly half of the crop was affected in one way or another.
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand in the days after Cyclone Gabrielle
The biggest impact is reported to have been on early varieties that were mid-harvest when the cyclone struck and/or had product in cool stores, which may have been affected by the extended power cuts in the weeks following the cyclone. Cripps Pink is estimated to have a 14 per cent decrease on preseason forecast, but the final number won’t be known until later this month when harvest is complete and the post-harvest forecasts are in.
Following the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle on the Hawke’s Bay region, New Zealand Pink Lady Growers Association (NZPLGA) agreed to prioritise support for Hawke’s Bay growers in their sponsorship budget.
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand in the days after Cyclone Gabrielle
“We know that funding is needed urgently as they are still in recovery, while also navigating this season’s harvest,” said Greig Taylor, Chair NZPLGA.
As such NZPLGA have made an NZ$50,000 donation to the Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers Association’s (HBFGA) Cyclone recovery fund to enable the further scaling and longevity of the services they are extending to impacted growers.
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand in the days after Cyclone Gabrielle
“The funds that we have received are already being put to work with a number of wellbeing and technical services being extended free of charge to impacted growers and their families,” said Brydon Nisbet, HBFGA President.
“We are mindful that the magnitude and complexity of the event will require these services to be adapted and scaled over time. There is a long and uncertain road ahead for many. As an association, and with your support, we are committed to supporting these people to get back on their feet,” continued Mr Nisbet.
New Zealand is coming to the end of harvest with the quality of this season’s crop looking good, and shipments now underway. Renowned for their resilience, Kiwi growers are back on their feet following the devastating weather event and are looking forward with positivity for a good season ahead.
