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Clean-up underway in cyclone-damaged regions as New Zealand approaches harvest

“Cyclone Gabrielle has occurred on the cusp of the busiest time of year for the industry, just as the 2023 vintage is about to begin, and it is a major blow for affected growers and wineries throughout Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne. We have been working with our regional associations and government agencies to support and help them access the resources they need to ensure the future viability of their vineyards.”

As the extent of damage in flooded regions becomes clearer, many winegrowers who have not been as affected in these areas are moving on from the initial phase of the response and beginning harvest.

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“We have a large number of vineyards in both regions that have not been as significantly impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, and these winegrowers are beginning to harvest their crop, with many producers still feeling positive and looking forward to a high-quality vintage.”

However, others were less fortunate and suffered huge damage to their vineyards and wineries:

“Those affected have a long road ahead of them to assess the damage, undertake the cleanup and consider their future. The recovery funding announced by the government this week is a good start to making this all possible, and future financial relief that is expected to be announced in due course will be appreciated, added Gregan.

To put the severity of the situation into context, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne are New Zealand’s second and third-largest wine-producing regions respectively, together producing nearly 60,000 tonnes (or 12%) of the 2022 vintage.

Gregan concluded: “The ongoing challenges over the past few years have proven the resilience and adaptability of the New Zealand wine community, and the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle has been met with the same strength and determination. Our industry's unwavering commitment to producing premium quality wines will prevail, so wine lovers in New Zealand and around the world can continue to enjoy the distinctive wines from these regions.”

In response, the industry has come together to help those in need, and many have reached out wanting to contribute financially to help the wine community directly with the recovery and rehabilitation process. 

Those wanting to donate directly to the Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne wine communities can find more information here.

• New Zealand Winegrowers
• Gisborne
• Hawke’s Bay
• Philip Gregan
• Cyclone Gabrielle
• Vineyard floods