Hawke’s Bay Fruit Growers Association Update
Explore, Grow & Thrive – Take a breath, and grow!
As November unfolds, we find ourselves balancing exciting celebrations alongside some of the most pressing challenges facing our industry. It’s a dynamic time of year, filled with opportunities to reflect on our shared achievements while also planning for what’s ahead. As the weather warms, so does the pace of the season. Orchards are buzzing with activity, and the demands on growers are increasing. Remember to take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect on the incredible work you’re doing—not just to sustain your orchards, but to contribute to the vitality and prosperity of our entire region.
This month has been one of action and engagement. From celebrating the 125th anniversary of HBFA to our annual Fishing Competition, there’s been plenty to celebrate and enjoy. At the same time, we’ve been hard at work communicating critical updates, submissions, and events to ensure you stay informed and supported as the season heats up.
Looking ahead, there are several key submissions on the horizon, including updates related to water allocations (TANK), the Future Development Strategy (FDS), and the Joint Waste Management and Minimisation Plan and not forgetting the Governments Natural Hazards feedback (Each of these has significant implications for growers, and we’re committed to advocating strongly on your behalf. Keep an eye out for more detailed communications as these submissions progress.
Celebrating 125 Years of HBFA
On Saturday, November 2nd, we came together to celebrate the 125th anniversary of HBFA, and what a fantastic event it was! It was heartwarming to see so many growers, past and present, along with industry leaders, come together to mark this significant milestone. The stories shared, the camaraderie, and the reflections on our journey as an association made it a truly memorable evening. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this celebration such a resounding success. See below past Presidents and current.
Fishing Competition Success
The annual HBFA Fishing Competition has wrapped up, and what an incredible event it was! The weather was so perfect at times, with stretches of flat, “glass-like water,”. The turnout was fantastic, with boats filled to the brim with eager competitors ready to weight in their biggest catches (or the best fish tales, depending on who you ask). The enthusiasm was contagious—though we’re not sure if it was more for the fishing or the post-catch bragging rights back at shore.
A huge congratulations to the winners, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, sponsored and supported the event. Your efforts made this year’s competition one to remember. We’re already counting down to next year—rods ready, nets untangled, and stories slightly more believable.
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Advocating for Critical Industry Challenges
We remain deeply committed to addressing key challenges that directly impact growers.
Future Development Strategy (FDS):
We are actively in the FDS to ensure the voices of our growers are front and center. These discussions are vital for protecting livelihoods of our industry and ensuring long-term prosperity and securing food supplies. We ask that you contribute your thoughts to our Grower Survey on this topic, survey out now!
Joint Waste Management and Minimisation plan:
The council is seeking your feedback on how we manage resources moving forward. The next opportunity for you to provide input on the plan will be at the consultation stage, anticipated in April 2025, but now is the time to familiarize yourself with the plan and prepare to provide input. More info here
Water & the TANK Plan:
Water remains one of the most pressing issues for our region. The TANK plan and water allocation strategies are critical to our industry’s future, and we’ve been working tirelessly to communicate essential updates to growers. We’re making every effort to ensure that growers are informed, supported, and ready to meet the challenges of water management head-on. If you have questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Key dates for TANK:
• 29 November 2024, 4 PM:
If your water permits are expiring in May 2025, you must lodge replacement applications by this date to ensure your ability to continue taking water under your current consent while applications are processed. If you’re unsure what volume to apply for, we recommend applying for the same volume as your current consent. Look out for reminders from the regional council, and don’t delay!
• Early December 2024:
The regional council has indicated that an update on the processing of water permits will be provided in early December. Their last communication extended processing timeframes to 30 December 2024. Keep an eye out for this update, as it will provide critical information about next steps.
Natural Hazards submission: Building Resilience:
HBFA is contributing to the Building Resilience to Hazards – Long-term insights briefing, a critical discussion led by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. This initiative focuses on understanding and strengthening New Zealand’s resilience to natural hazards, including floods, droughts, earthquakes, and climate-related events. As growers, these hazards pose significant risks to our livelihoods, infrastructure, and long-term sustainability.
Key dates for Natural Hazards submission:
• Consultation Open: 1 October 2024
• Consultation Closes: 30 November 2024
• Insights Briefing Release: April 2025 (anticipated)
By actively engaging in these consultations, we ensure that growers’ perspectives are not only heard but also central to shaping policies that safeguard our industry and communities. This work reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting the long-term viability of horticulture in the face of increasing natural challenges. We encourage growers to stay informed and engage in future opportunities to influence these critical conversations.
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The Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association (HBFA) is committed to aligning our efforts with the priorities and needs of our grower members. To ensure we focus our resources on the areas that matter most to you, we would greatly appreciate your input through the following survey. This survey is a valuable opportunity for you to share insights and feedback that will help us better address the challenges and opportunities within our industry. Your responses will remain completely anonymous, ensuring you can provide open and honest feedback.
Thank you for helping us shape a stronger, more responsive HBFA. Members, please watch out for the survey email and link following this newsletter.
HBFA Protect Foster and Promote dashboard below:
Reach out for support:
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact me, Callum Ross, at HBFA, or directly connect with Wanda Douglas at 021 1700 506 or wandspsychology@gmail.com. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and we’re here to support each other.
Warm regards,
Callum Ross
Chief Executive Officer HBFA & Chairman HAG (Horticulture Advisory Group)
