Pipfruit orchards are full of flower with strong return bloom, good fruit set can be seen on summer fruit orchards and kiwifruit vines are fully laden with flower buds. So, amidst the discussion about looming challenges ahead (labour, politics, and global economics), it is worth pausing for a moment to enjoy spring and the promise a bountiful season ahead. Personally, it is the anticipation of a great crop that provides essential motivation to get through winter and spring when harvest seems a long way off.
As fruit growers we have probably never faced a more diverse range of both challenges and opportunities. On one hand demand for healthy, safe food is increasing rapidly especially in many of our key export markets. Horticulture has emerged as a rising star that promises to help lift our national economy out of recession with significant growth in fruit export earnings over the first six months of the year. New Zealand and Hawkes Bay continue to be recognised as one of the best places in the world to grow fruit.
On the other hand, we face huge uncertainty. Who is going to pick our fruit? Will the borders re-open for some of our Pacific neighbours? How many New Zealander’s will be prepared to try a career change and jump into seasonal jobs in horticulture? Will overseas consumers continue to buy our premium fruit, if economies struggle to recover from Covid-19?
At time like this it is often best to focus on what we can control. We can optimise the quality of our crops and maximise the market opportunities. We can work closely with our communities, fellow growers and other stakeholders to get as many Kiwis into jobs on our orchards and packhouses as possible. We can embrace the opportunity to upskill and grow our permanent workforce via the many training and education grants currently available.
One thing is for sure. People around the world won’t stop eating and Hawke’s Bay will continue to be one of the best places in the world to produce food!
I hope you enjoy this October newsletter and, as a new President, I very much look forward to engaging with as many of our members and supporters as possible over the next few months. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss anything effecting our industry that you believe deserves attention, or simply to ‘chew the fat’.
Ngā mihi
Richard Pentreath
Richard Pentreath, KGI Lower North Island Representative
Orchards are generally in very good shape as we count down to flowering. Early canopy development has been strong and thankfully we have seen a return to more typical flower numbers on Gold3 vines which will allow growers to target higher yields. On the flip side, most Gold3 crops will require significant thinning both pre and post flowering to optimise crop load and fruit quality. Labour supply has been OK earlier in the month but, in my experience it is now becoming difficult to find extra people to help with thinning work.
Latest reports from Zespri suggest average tray returns from the 2019/2020 crop will be close to forecast figures for both Green and Gold. Looking ahead to the 2020/2021 crop, Zespri are encouraging growers to target a larger size profile which will help them achieve optimal market mix which in turn will optimise our orchard gate return. This suggests growers should be careful if planning to carry high fruit numbers, especially if Hawkes Bay is likely to experience another dry growing season.
After nearly four years, I have decided to step down as the KGI Forum Representative for Hawke’s Bay and Lower North Island. My last Forum meeting will be October 20th and Jens Liesebach, who has been nominated for the role, will take over duties thereafter. I have really enjoyed my time on the KGI Forum and it has been a privilege to represent Hawke’s Bay growers. I know Jens will be a great replacement so please make a point to connect with Jens and share your views on kiwifruit industry matters. KGI is an important vehicle for kiwifruit growers and as growers it is important that we participate to ensure Zespri hears our collective voice in the regions.
All the best.
Richard Mills, Summerfruit NZ Market Support
At the time of writing we are six weeks from the start of harvest, and by the time you are reading this maybe only a month until the first peach, nectarine and apricots roll out of Bay View and the warmer growing pockets.
Looking at the degree growing days we are about 30 units ahead of last season (1 September to 11 October) and this is being reflected in Marlborough and Central Otago as well – at this stage the season is not late. Yet, the sheep, beef and dairy farmers around here are only just holding their own with grass growth. If you look up at Mt Erin the north facing slopes have turned brown already. So, as we reflected last time, keep an eye on soil moisture levels.
Summerfruit bloom was generally strong, and short in duration and some chemical thinning was carried out, so I would have expected a good solid fruit set. Combine this, with what would seem adequate winter chilling, and big sets would have been anticipated, but this is not always the case. I have seen a few blocks where hand thinning is a “maybe yes, maybe no, can I tolerate a few bunches” question. To be fair, this is more often in apricot and some plums although I have picked up a report of cherry in part being quite poor. Maybe we are seeing a bit of effect from drought stressed trees from the end of last season and maybe a bit much wind for bees at a critical time. A mixed bag, but generally enough fruit at this point. Fruit size is looking good with the lower sets and good temperatures.
A few aphids are about and reports of them appearing where they were not only two days ago. Keep monitoring please.
It’s is interesting to reflect that this time last year we were dealing with the fall-out of a very significant hail storm or two. This year we are wondering what the labour supply will be. Everyone that I have talked to seems to think that they will be OK for thinning and into the early part of the harvest and yet I see the ‘pickers wanted’ signs out already. I guess this sort of mixed messaging is indicative of a scenario that we have not encountered before and working in a space of incomplete information.
I asked the same question of the Central Otago growers a couple of weeks ago and got a similar answer. We have enough pickers on the books but when the industry adds up the number of potential workers there is a different story. Do go to the Work The Seasons website and register your interest www.worktheseasons.co.nz The real pressure will come on once apple thinning kicks in, as it does for apples when the kiwifruit harvest starts.
Still, we should be wary. The hospitality industry, which relies on backpackers is experiencing much better than normal occupancy rates and is having trouble attracting staff and especially quality staff. We do play in the same part of the labour market.
Summerfruit NZ in conjunction with the Agchem merchants, are offering a free one-year subscription to the HortPlus electronic spray diary – SprayLog. Please note that SprayLog will not generate an export clearance and therefore only suitable for fruit for sale in New Zealand. If you are interested please contact Richard Mills directly on 021 632559 or email richard.mills@summerfruitnz.co.nz
Danielle Adsett, Manager Market Access at New Zealand Apples and Pears
Focus in the apple and pear industry has quickly shifted from picking, packing and exporting 97% of the forecasted 2020 crop, to registering blocks for markets, managing bloom, applying sprays to manage pest and disease pressure and creating labour plans (including plan A, B and C).
The New Zealand Apples and Pears team are nearly all the way through the annual Grower Workshops, where we touch base with members on the previous season to discuss market access issues, residue profiles and R&D outcomes, as well as any opportunities or issues for the coming season. Aside from the obvious issues that are at the forefront of every growers’ mind (and on the minds of the majority of the NZAPI team as we work towards plan A, B and C), managing pest and disease on orchard through spring to harvest, to ensure both regulatory and commercial MRL’s are met, while balancing pest, disease and quality out-turns are no less important. Managing pest and disease effectively year on year, with chemistry constantly being dropped out of the system will mean that we need to continue to find alternative options whether they are soft, targeted pesticides, precision agriculture, biologicals or improved cultural control. Striving towards continuous improvement of market access with considerations on chemistry, sustainability, and social license to operate remains a top priority for both NZAPI and its members.
Protect
TANK Plan Change 9
Thanks to everyone who lodged a submission. The council received 250, which is a tremendous help for the hearings panel to understand the impact the plan change could have on Hawke’s Bay’s horticulture industry. Council is currently summarising the submissions lodged and have indicated they these summarised submissions will be available for making further submissions soon (closing October).
Horticulture New Zealand is currently preparing evidence for the TANK plan change hearings. Case studies will be trialled with horticulture growers who are GAP certified, using the Environmental Management System bolt-on module. If successful, this module will be incorporated within the existing GAP certification programme and remove the need for growers to provide a Freshwater Farm Plan that is currently proposed under the RMA Amendment Act 2020.
Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association would like to thank Charlotte Dury from Horticulture New Zealand for providing valuable expertise and resources to help to deliver positive outcomes for our region.
Outdoor Burning
A hot topic with the HBRC!
During the winter months (1 May – 31 August) and pursuant to Rules 19a and 19e of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Resource Management Plan (RRMP), the horticultural industry is permitted to burn diseased material and material left over from orchard redevelopment. This is a privilege that was hard fought for by HBFA and Horticulture NZ in 2010.
There has been active campaigning over the past 12 months from some councillors to place a total fire ban on all properties on the Heretaunga Plains.
Five options were presented for consideration by the RPC to address outdoor burning.
Only one option allowed the burning of orchard re-development and diseased material to continue and after lengthy debate, this option was accepted. However, this will be revisited under the Regional Resource Management Plan Review scheduled to commence in 2021. The alternative options would have prohibited all outdoor burning in the shorter-term.
Rural landowners MUST adhere to the outdoor burning rules. As an industry we are all responsible to take the appropriate steps when it comes to burning dry orchard waste. Although our industry does not represent all rural land-owners, collectively we must all work with council to develop an acceptable plan for controlled burning.
If unsure of what and when to burn visit HBRC – When and What to Burn We all want clean, fresh and healthy air in Hawke’s Bay and by following basic good burning practices, this can be achieved.
Foster
The Minister of Education, Chris Hipkins recently announced that one of two Food and Fibre CoVE’s (Centre of Vocational Excellence) will be housed at the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT). The purpose of CoVE is to to produce well-trained and work-ready graduates and provide better up-skilling and re-skilling opportunities. The CoVE will also support the development of workplace-based learning models that are better suited to industry needs and consolidate the connection between industry and the education providers to create a better understanding of the industry and employment contexts. This is a major coup for our industry.
Trainee news
To some degree we are still feeling the effects of Covid-19 in our delivery. Whilst we have caught up most classes, there is little leeway, so now that the spraying season has arrived in earnest, I do ask for your indulgence and try to release the trainees on training days. We recognise the importance of chemical applications, and every endeavor will made to catch up those who miss a class.
Our new cohort of trainees enrolled in the Level 3 Operational Skills qualification, who began last month have started well and have just completed the Health a Safety component. Clare has undertaken to catch up anyone who wants to start someone now, so it is not too late to start someone and achieve the ‘apprentice boost’ subsidy.
Yr 1 trainees are well into their course and are now completing some of the more theoretical subjects. We had an excellent class at the end of August looking at weather and soils and how they affect our day to day operations, as well as longer term planning. We have irrigation and pests and diseases to come. This cohort will join with the new cohort from August to complete the Level 3 Fruit Production Qualification in the new year.
Year 2 trainees have completed their two botany classes that were delayed as a result of the lockdown. Trainees should also be working on their weather assessments. Please try to include them in conversations around the use and timing of dormancy breakers.
Year 3 trainees have just completed some lab work which involves using hormones and how they affect plant growth. The assessment involves a report using scientific method to hypothesis the outcomes. This is a really worthwhile project as it has applications to a wide range of plant growth factors.
Level 5 Diploma has just begun the last course for the year which is ‘Labour Management’. Most of the participants in this course are in positions of responsibility on their orchards. Please pave their way by recognising this time commitment and giving some flexibility to their study release. They are working very hard and producing some excellent work which will result in great outcomes for the industry.
For further information, please contact EIT Tutor Gordon Reid on greid@eit.ac.nz or 06 8301851.
Promote
Planning for the annual Fishing Competition is well underway and we are looking forward to hosting a great day on the 2nd November (weather pending!). A huge thanks to all our new and existing sponsors for coming on board this year- it’s great to see so many businesses support their staff and the industry by being involved in this event. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for updates. All our sponsors will be listed our website and acknowledged on Facebook so make sure you follow us!
To assist with HBFA’s messaging on Outdoor Burning, a Facebook campaign was run prior to the 1st September, when the burning restrictions were lifted. The campaign supported our message “Check Before You Burn” and was directed to agriculture, horticulture and rural farm owners in Hawke’s Bay. The campaign reached over 2,300 Facebook users and 4,400 impressions over a 5 day period.
As we roll into our sponsorship ‘season’, we look forward to delivering our events and supporting those businesses who support our industry.
Pipfruit
Lisa Edgarton
There is genuine concern in the industry about the imminent labour crisis, if Government does not relax the current border restrictions.
Horticulture requires ~ 10,000 workers to enable this seasons crop to be picked. Thinning and canopy management will begin in November and there is concern that extensive crop management will have to be undertaken if the industry can not source the labour it needs.
New Zealand Apple and Pears, Council representatives and Horticulture New Zealand are actively campaigning to achieve an outcome that will enable the industry to grow and harvest this seasons crop. We will keep you updated on progress.
In the orchard, greentip has started and growers are applying fungicides- this will continue from now on till harvest. Bud burst seems to be relatively even, with the bud breakers getting a head start. The last of winter pruning is currently being undertaken along with general orchard maintenance.
Kiwifruit
Richard Pentreath, KGI Lower North Island Representative
KVH invites Hawke’s Bay kiwifruit growers to a presentation about KVH’s proposed new Pathway Management Plan. The meeting will be focused on the proposed new regulation framework to better manage biosecurity risk to the kiwifruit industry. Development of the plan has advanced well and information can be found on the KVH website.
KVH are required to present evidence that growers support the proposed changes in order to gain government approval so growers are strongly encouraged to attend the meeting to learn how the proposal could benefit the industry:
Thursday 24 September, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Crown Hotel, Ahuriri.
Please RSVP to KVH Grower Roadshow
On the orchard, bud break is well underway for both Green and Gold varieties. It is too early to predict flower numbers but percentage bud break on Gold3 vines looks to be in the normal/expected range. With new leaves emerging, growers will be paying close attention to forecast disease risk (Psa) and applying protective sprays prior to high risk events.
The recent Zespri roadshow was well attended by Hawke’s Bay growers and there was healthy discussion on key topics including illegal growing of Gold3 in China, selection of new fruit maturity testing facilities and harvest clearance protocols for the 2021 season.
Summerfruit
Richard Mills, Summerfruit NZ Market Support
Spring is upon us and there has been more than enough winter chilling in the Wider Hawke’s Bay regions (Wairoa to Central Hawke’s Bay) to provide for good bud break and flower quality, even for the more demanding Summerfruit crops such as cherries and apricots.
We received more than 1000 Richardson Chill Units (RCU) between 1 May – 30 August in all stonefruit regions throughout New Zealand. Central Otago, in comparison received in the vicinity of 1500 RCU’s for the same period.
Bloom kicked in from about mid-August, with growing degree days for the month of August normal to slightly above. The 24°C on the last day of August, does seem a bit over the top, but we’ll take it! There were four moderate or severe infection periods during August, so well worthwhile having those early cover sprays on.
All things considered, we are having a normal start to the season, with some variation depending on when the warm days arrived and the stage the trees are at. The only thing we would like some more of, is soil water.
Summerfruit growers can source climate data on the Summerfruit NZ website portal. If you have not registered please contact me at richard.mills@summerfruitnz.co.nz .
Summerfruit representatives and associates are able to register as well.
Flower thinning with ATS and via mechanical means is underway. Hand thinning is most likely another 2 weeks for early nectarines. We hope government, in conjunction with sector organisations, can ease border restrictions to enable the industry to have adequate labour for the coming season. Having said that, make plan A, plan B and plan C.
At the end of August, the rescheduled SummerGreen meeting was held in Hastings. The first session discussed the extent to which old chemistry is still being used in the industry, and the industry benchmarking report. We then broadened this to look at what a new generation Summerfruit IFP programme could look like. The second session looked at new variety development and discussed the implications of the severely limited new variety imports from North America and what New Zealand plant breeders are currently producing.
Summerfruit NZ is also involved in on-going industry initiatives. ‘A Lighter Touch’ project is bringing together many of the industry organizations to investigate using softer chemistry. This dove-tailed nicely with what the PFR scientists highlighted during the SummerGreen meeting.
The second initiative is a government initiated ‘Horticulture Post-COVID recovery’ project which is bringing together industry personnel from Horticulture New Zealand and the sector groups. Whilst both of these initiatives are still in the set-up phase, it will be interesting to compare and contrast, to see what we are doing well and what we can learn from the other sectors. Watch this space, I guess.
Foster
The Government are really getting behind our industry with a range of different incentives for training and retraining potential employees for our Horticulture sector. Our industry is still growing so there is always going to be a need for trained and skilled people.
Education
Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)
In the last newsletter I mentioned the government’s “apprentice boost” initiative which provides a subsidy for employers to take on apprentices. This subsidy is significant as it provides $1000 per month for the first 12 months and then $500 per month up to a total of 20 months. Potentially $16,000! This subsidy can apply to existing trainees and new ones. Additionally, the courses are fees free.
The interest has been huge and to this end we have created a new cohort that will start on Monday the 17th of August. 9am start in room M100. We already have 16 enrolments in the programme so there are only a few spaces left and of course time is short.
This cohort will complete a 40 credit Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills, covering health, safety and wellbeing, tractors, and chainsaws, as well as Growsafe and first aid, between August and December. Individuals that have signed up for this course, must currently be employed (they will attend EIT for approximately 10 days). They will concurrently be enrolled in the L3 Fruit Production Certificate, enabling them to be eligible for the “apprentice boost” funding and start that course next January, along with the existing Year 1 trainees.
Year 1 trainees have just completed Growsafe and despite some inclement weather have now caught up on their fruit support structure classes. Now the chainsaw classes are all completed. Warren was very impressed with the overall competency of the trainees. Remember in the time available we will only sign them off to being a capable. Trainers will need to give them experience to get to an outstanding level.
Year 2 trainees have a busy few weeks coming up. They have just completed the weather class, for which there is an assignment involving the use of weather data for making decisions such as when to use dormancy breakers and Codling moth control. As part of this assessment they need to present a control plan. Please note this is not a plan they need to create but they need to be asking their trainers for the information about dates and methods used.
At the end of lockdown, we postponed the two botany classes and these were rescheduled to be delivered on the 14th and 28th of August. While botany is an academic subject, it provides important knowledge for trainees to understand plant physiology and the responses to our management techniques.
Most year 3 trainees are up to date with their work and the lock down did not affect their timetable too much. Unfortunately, the illness of one of our staff has required the rescheduling of one of the Fruit Crop Production days. We have a plan which will cover this on the 21st of August which is their next class. These trainees have a busy second semester so please get them to use their time productively.
For further information, please contact EIT Tutor Gordon Reid greid@eit.ac.nz or 06 8301851.
Primary ITO
Following lockdown, we are starting to receive a lot of assignment work coming in for marking, good progress for existing trainees towards their qualifications. This is an opportune time for apprentices to get back on top of their study workload before the demands of business begin to take more time and the busy season starts anew.
There has been a lot of interest in the Government No Fees and Apprenticeship Boost Scheme. Interestingly, across horticulture, the level of sign-up has not been as high in pipfruit compared to other primary industry sectors, such as landscape, amenity and nursery. Now is the time for orchards and the packhouses to really take advantage of all that this wonderful offer can provide – this fantastic opportunity should not be missed!
The Post Harvest Diploma is underway again and working in conjunction with EIT, is a very comprehensive qualification for those looking for good career within the industry.
For information, please contact the Regional Delivery Manager for Horticulture, Jason Smyth Jason.smyth@primaryito.ac.nz or o6 855 9004.
Promote
Little did we suspect that less than 48 hours ago we would be given a reminder of the volatility of Coronovirus. As most of us have been watching the prevalence of the virus spreading in Victoria, the government has reminded us frequently, that is wasn’t a case of if, but when.
Our decision to move towards digital communications earlier in the year, has proved invaluable. Little did we suspect when we launched our HBFA social media platforms in March, the extent to which digital channels would become the primary communication tool amid changing global circumstances. Being able to effectively reach our members and the greater horticultural community, is one of the most important roles we have in providing up-to-date information. Digital communications enables us to deliver stories of growth, success and innovation within our incredible region.
Since the March inception, we have seen a fantastic uptake on our social media platforms by members, businesses and sponsors. We also continue to see an active increase in wider community engagement and overall interest, in ‘what’s happening” in the hort sector. For this, we would like to thank you – our ‘community’, for actively participating with our HBFA social media platforms, our e-newsletter and newly designed website. Our aim and purpose is to support the grower community in a positive way and we are only able to do so, with your support. So, the next time you see a HBFA communication on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram, please let us know what you think, by giving it a “like,” adding a comment, or simply by sharing. As in all things, working together, we are stronger.
Over the past month we have been busy securing venues for all our HBFA events for 2020/21. We are pleased to announce that we have chosen the brand-new Toitoi Events Center for all of our upcoming events for the next three years. This includes next months AGM, our Industry Awards and Graduation Ceremony and the Hawkes Bay Young Fruit Grower of the Year Awards Dinner. All details are listed on our event calendar on our website HBFA Event Calendar.
The Toitoi Events Center is brand new state-of-the-art facility and we are really looking forward to hosting out premium events there for at least the next three years.
Pipfruit
NZAPI
TANK and Methyl Bromide EPA Hearing
Two pressing issues on the NZAPI calendar currently are a submission to HBRC regarding Plan Change 9 (TANK) and a hearing with the EPA on the reassessment of Methyl Bromide.
Regarding Plan Change 9, the submission will be in support of the Horticulture NZ submission and will cover off on the specificity of Pipfruit production.
In the EPA hearing on the reassessment of Methyl Bromide, NZAPI will support recapture to 80% instead of the current recapture proposal to 5ppm. The Pipfruit sector uses less than 0.1% of the total Methyl Bromide use in New Zealand and at half the loading. We currently rely on this treatment for access of our apples into Japan, due to Codling Moth being a quarantine pest, but are actively working with MPI, and are investing in R&D, to secure the acceptance of the systems approach as an alternative to Methyl Bromide fumigation for access to Japan.
Seasonal Labour
Ministerial, Immigration and MSD meetings are being held to ensure there is maximum flexibility to access seasonal workers for this season. This includes other categories of visa holders such as working holiday scheme and student visas. RSE workers may not be able to return into New Zealand for an indeterminate length of time and it could be assumed that key decisions will not be made until after the election. Generally, there are four ongoing discussions with Government on the future of the RSE programme for 2020/2021. These are:
NZAPI will continue to provide updates to industry as they become available.
Summerfruit
Richard Mills, Summerfruit NZ Market Support
By the time you read this there will be plenty of summer fruit blooming or about to do so. I have photos of nectarine trees in full bloom on the 20th of July but they are one of those oddball varieties that has low chill requirements and will be harvested at the end of November.
The early flowering Mayglo mentioned above would seem to be reacting in a normal manner to a normal winter chill season in Bay View. Our Gisborne and Wairoa growers will be a little more advanced than those in Hawkes Bay. Chilling around the rest of the area would seem to be normal or a little bit shy of average accumulation but I am not expecting any negative reaction from the trees. We seem to be in a warm spell at the moment, but as my old boss would comment, that this is normal somewhere during the winter.
Despite the settled weather we’ve enjoyed, the request still stands for growers to be careful with insecticide drift in apple and kiwifruit blocks. Members of the general public are active in spotting our misdemeanors and reporting them to the authorities and rightly so.
There is now enough water in the top part of the soil profile after the significant dry, so it’s steady as we go at this stage.
It has been thought-provoking as an interested bystander to become engaged in the TANK change process. We are fortunate to have some very good people who have been advocating on the behalf of growers. It’s Summerfruit NZ’s view that we will support Hort NZ’s submission and encourage growers to forward their own views and case studies, as we should be all singing from the same song book. This is serious stuff and I hope many of you made submissions. Meetings have had reasonable numbers attending and asking questions but the Zoom meetings had fewer attendees. Post Covid-19 these remote meetings have become much more the norm and I imagine will continue to be so.
The removal of trees is obvious around the plains and I think there will be a smaller area in summer fruit once the redevelopment has finished. This seems to be a continuing pattern which is entirely reasonable when one considers the relative strength of apple and kiwi returns. With the smaller volumes of Hawkes Bay summer fruit on the local market last year, as a result of the October hail storm, prices were firmer than in the previous two seasons. I will follow with interest this season to see where the price/demand-supply equation lands.
Whilst Hawke’s Bay may have fewer summer fruit trees in the ground there is potentially the biggest cherry crop ever coming from Central Otago. Last year was a light crop due to a late frost so the trees may well rebound with a big bloom, and planting has been significant over the last few years. With the probability of fewer workers, especially backpackers, and with limited air freight capacity for the export crop, we are watching this space very carefully. Will there be heaps of cheap cherries on the market in the New Year or not? Our local cherry growers may not be impacted but the peach, nectarine and plum growers will be watching carefully.
At a national level Summerfruit NZ has been though an industry review and is working though what this will mean. The Commodity Levy has been approved at Government level and the AGM set an unchanged levy rate.
We are looking forward with interest and hope to a new but challenging start to the season; and is that not always the case.
Kiwifruit
Richard Pentreath, KGI Lower North Island Representative
The recent fine weather has provided a welcome opportunity to catch up on winter vine work in the orchard after the prolonged wet spell in July. As sap flow begins this month, growers are encouraged to monitor for Psa symptoms and mark and/or remove infected material from the orchard. Whilst summer 2019/2020 had very few high risk Psa infection events, the KVH risk model shows that Psa infection risk in the months of June and July was high in Hawkes Bay relative to previous seasons. Predictions of bud break timing point to a similar date to last season although temperatures between now and September can also affect the timing of bud break.
Last month the IAC (Industry Advisory Council) voted to reinstate full Kiwistart payments for fruit that was submitted prior to the 25th of March (when normal fruit maturity testing was still available) with a small deduction to reflect the increase in fruit value received across the pool from non-allocated Kiwistart payments. This is good news for Hawkes Bay growers that target the early supply period.
Zespri reports that the season continues to track well to plan at a global level from both a volume and value point of view, with sales in Europe and Korea particularly strong.
In total, 77.5 million trays have now been delivered this year to date, well ahead of the 71 million trays delivered at the same point last year.
Pipfruit
NZAPI
2020 has been a season of two halves, with a reliance on the entire supply chain to step up and work collaboratively to get the sector through a record harvest and a global pandemic. With a forecast of 22.7 million TCE’s (up 3% on 2019) of high quality fruit, the added pressure of managing harvest and post-harvest logistics provided a few new challenges that even the most seasoned grower would not have come up against before. Strict social distancing measures and reduced staff numbers, created some interesting innovative solutions and pushed packhouse storage capacity to its limits.
As of 30 June, the apple and pear sector is sitting at 73% exported against forecast, down from 2019 (80% shipped to same ISO week) and whilst the final export total may come in short of the original forecast, the 2020 season has fared well given the extraordinary global circumstances.
Diversity of market and varietal mix has been a real silver-lining for this season’s crop. Markets that New Zealand have historically relied on have posed challenges this year due to Covid-19. Challenges include processing delays at international ports, coolstorage capacity rapidly becoming full and wholesale markets being effectively shut. On the flip side, this seasons Braeburn has shown surprising demand in the EU, Russia is taking significantly higher volumes (up 120% on 2019) and Asian markets are picking up as restrictions lessen and cancelled festivals are rescheduled.
2020 would not have been the season it was if it wasn’t for the huge effort of orchardists and packhouses to keep operating within social distancing guidelines, the diverse mix of varieties and markets, the high quality of fruit grown and packed, and New Zealand’s reputation for providing high quality, safe and healthy produce.
Kiwifruit
Richard Pentreath
Although the impact of Covid 19 may influence fruit sales later in the year, at this stage both Green and Gold kiwifruit is selling well and growers are looking forward to healthy tray returns this season as Zespri settle into their marketing programme. Kiwifruit remains a popular choice for overseas consumers looking for foods high in Vitamin C.
Zespri is currently consulting with industry representative bodies to agree revised Kiwistart rates (incentive payments for early fruit) for the 2020 season. Close to 60% of the Gold3 crop in Hawke’s Bay was harvested in the early ‘Kiwistart’ window so the outcome of this consultation is important to growers the Hawke’s Bay region.
The kiwifruit industry has embarked on a significant project to re-design the way in which pre-harvest maturity testing is carried out including the collection of fruit samples on orchard and testing of fruit in the laboratory. This is a very large project that involves multiple stakeholders and it is likely that interim measures will be put in place to get through the 2021 harvest before a new model is fully functional in 2022. Hawke’s Bay growers are hoping that both fruit sampling and laboratory testing services will continue to be carried out by local service providers, as has been the case previously.
Another industry review is underway which aims to simplify the processes employed to assess fruit dry matter content and calculate the associated grower payments known as ‘Taste’ payments. This is another significant project that will require extensive consultation between Zespri, postharvest businesses and growers.
In the orchard, winter pruning continues with some growers playing catch-up after a wet June delayed progress. Autumn has passed with only isolated incidents of new Psa infection (vine canker) reported to date. This is great news for growers that have suffered higher levels of infection in the past.
Summerfruit
Gareth Hope
The summer fruit spraying season has begun in early varieties, such as the Mayglo nectarines. This is almost three weeks earlier than last year- currently between 5-10% bloom. The early chill units in early May, followed by a substanital amount of rain in June, has contributed to early bud movement. This however does not translate to an early season!
Pruning should be nearly finished on most blocks. Coppers and oils should be applied on pre- Christmas fruit within the next couple of weeks.
A reminder of the SummerfruitNZ AGM to be held on the 15th July. If you intend to attend in person or viz zoom, please register by the 13th July via SummerfruitNZ AGM Registration
Sailing through the wake of the Covid battleship, HBFA is working alongside other industry organisations on regulatory issues – the recent HBRC draft Annual Plan, the draft Napier City Council District Plan, the proposed TANK Plan change and WCO appeal.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Draft Annual Plan
Due to Covid-19 and the drought, HBRC have drafted a climate-smart Annual Plan that responds to the challenges being faced by the communities. The Regional Council anticipates a significant drop in non-rate income in the 2020-2021 financial year due to these events, and that a number of ratepayers will face financial hardship.
Two proposals required feedback:
Rates Approach for 2020-2021
Three options were provided:
A – Status Quo for rates
Immediate Outcome: No relief now, reduces the impact in following years
Action: Proceed with the planned 7.3% rate increase in line with the Council’s 2018-28 Long Term Plan
B – Cushion the impact of COVID-19
Immediate Outcome: Financial relief now, pay back in following years
Action: The Council borrows the increase in funding required for the 2020-21 year, so the rate revenue stays the same as the 2019-20 year. This achieves a 0% rates revenue increase; or
C – Mid Point rate increase
Immediate Outcome: Some financial cuhsioning but also borrowing to fund the balance
Action: Proceed with a 3.6% rates increase for 2020-21 and borrow the balance of the required funding
HBFA supported Option C as it was felt that this would mitigate a rates increase of 10.7% in 2021/2022 should Option B, the preferred option by HBRC, be implemented in due course.
Recovery Fund for 2020-2021
HBRC is considering establishing a Recovery Fund of $1 million to give the Council the flexibility to accelerate capital projects to help implement the ‘Climate. Smart. Recovery.’ Plan. The Recovery Fund would be prioritised to leverage co-funding from central government for shovel-ready projects to support the Hawke’s Bay economy.
The Recovery Fund has been reallocated from a budget tagged for additional office space and updated facilities for field staff. New opportunities arising from COVID-19 have enabled the Council to revisit needs for additional office space and delay the timing for this project
Two recovery fund options were considered:
A – No, do not establish a Recovery Fund of $1 million
This option makes no change to the budget tagged for additional office space and updated facilities for field staff, currently written into the Long Term Plan. As this funding was already included in the Long Term Plan budgets, there is no impact on rates or on debt levels; or
B – Yes, establish a Recovery Fund of $1 million
The government has signalled substantial funding for green recovery projects. By establishing this fund ,HBRC can position themselves favourably to leverage that funding if/when funding applications for ‘shovel-ready’ projects are approved. This option is funded by reallocating money from the budget tagged for additional office space and updated facilities for field staff.
HBFA and HBRC supported Option B.
Napier City Council District Plan Review
Under the RMA, a District Plan has to be reviewed every ten years. Napier City Council is currently drawing up the draft District Plan which is due to go out for consultation in November this year.
Six key objectives have been identified in the draft plan: Smart Growth, Quality Design, Environmental Excellence, Resilient Napier and Our People, Our Stories.
Pertinent to the horticulture sector is Greenfield Growth in the Hills. Residential growth in Napier’s western hills will improve Napier’s resilience to natural hazards and retain productive soils for growing food.
Greenfield Growth in the Hills
Napiers population is increasing and the council need to extend existing urban boundaries to accommodate another 2500 houses over the next 10 years. Hills around the Tardale area have been identified as potential sites – namely Taradale hills and Tironui Drive and surrounds. The community will be invited to provide feedback on the potential for development in the hills as part of the draft District Plan engagement process scheduled for November 2020 – February 2021. For more information please visit Napier District Plan Review
Ngaruroro Water Conservation Order Appeal
HortNZ is developing evidence for the Water Conservation Order appeal hearing, which is planned for August/September. HortNZ will participate in pre-hearing mediation later this month.
Tank Plan Meetings
Please visit our event calendar for up and coming TANK meetings https://hbfa.co.nz/news/
Thursday, 16 July, 3:30pm
Bay View Hotel, 43 Petane Road, Bay View
Growers are invited to attend a meeting at the Bay View Hotel to discuss the proposed plan. Organised by Summerfruit NZ’s vice chairman, Roger Brownlie, this meeting will focus on the Ahuriri Catchment.
Wednesday, 22 July, 7.00pm
Lantern Gallery, Havelock North Community Centre, 30 Te Mata Road, Havelock North
Growers are invited to attend a meeting at Havelock North Community Centre to discuss the proposed plan. Regional councillor Jerf van Beek will facilitate while HortNZ’s planning consultant, Charlotte Drury, will start the meeting with a brief presentation.
