Harvest Update: 2026 Season in Full Swing
We are now in the thick of the 2026 harvest. Following on form the great spring we had of last year, the weather again has been on our side, providing the warm, dry window needed for harvest.
RMA and Water Issues
Water security remains a top advocacy priority as we move through 2026. On behalf of HBFA, please see Charlotte’s report
- Resource Management Act (RMA): We continue to work closely with the Government and Council to ensure the voice of horticulture is central to the new “Fast-track” consenting frameworks. Our goal is simple: long-term certainty for our growers.
- Water Storage: We are closely monitoring the progress of the Ngaruroro storage proposal and the revitalised Tukituki Water Security Project. Securing reliable water is the only way to future-proof the “Fruit Bowl of New Zealand.”
Upcoming Events & Industry Milestones
- Napier Port Primary Sector Awards Dinner: Celebrating our industry leaders on Thursday, 2 April 2026, at Toitoi. This is now the 6th year that horticulture has been a part of this event so best of luck to the participants of this year’s Hort industry award
- Young Fruit Grower of the Year 2026: Our regional competition will take place 18–19 June 2026.
- NZAPI EXPO 2026 (Queenstown): Mark your calendars for 22–23 July 2026. This year’s expo has expanded to two full days of technical workshops, specialist sessions and the industry awards evening.
- New Zealand Horticulture Conference (Wellington): The following week HORTNZ have their conference at Tākina, Wellington from 28–29 July 2026. This will be an integrated event combining the main Horticulture and RSE Conferences.
- HBFA Industry Golf Day: May 15th – keep an eye out for details
Call to Action: Young Fruitgrower of the Year 2026
Applications for the 2026 Hawke’s Bay Young Fruit Grower of the Year are now officially open!
We are looking for the next generation of leaders to step up. If you have a talented young person in your team under the age of 30, encourage them to enter. This competition is about more than just winning; it’s about networking, growth, and professional development.
I want to thank our sponsors and the dedicated HBFA team for their tireless work. To all our growers: stay safe, look out for your teams, and let’s bring this 2026 harvest home.
Kia kaha
Brydon Nisbet
President Hawkes Bay Fruit Growers Association
