HBFA President’s Report – August 2026
Season Kick-Off
Early spraying has begun across the region, as we start another fruit growing season. There are forecasts of a strong El Niño phase intensifying through this spring and summer. For us here in HB, this typically means a much higher risk of strong westerly winds with hot, dry conditions. So, preparing for this will be extremely important in managing our crops through the 26/27 growing year.
- Irrigation maintenance is Key: Check your infrastructure early so your systems are all ready to go. Test your soil moisture probes and double-check your regional water consent limits to make sure you know exactly how much you can use and when.
- Manage Spray Windows: Stronger, more frequent winds mean our spraying windows could be tight. Monitor daily forecasts and plan your spray periods.
- Hot Weather: Sunburn will likely be an issue later in the season so get a plan ready for how you will manage this.
Please make sure that water meters and/or telemetry units are working well and accurately recording all water used. Having accurate water use records is going to be important no matter what the new resource management system looks like, so make sure your system is working well, and that you periodically check it, to make sure it continues to operate correctly over the coming season.
Young Grower National Final
The 2026 Young Grower of the Year National Final took place last week in Cromwell Central Otago on the 27th–28th August. I was down there along with a good contingent from HBFA to support Maddi Sheridan our HB Regional winner.
All the finalists completed a series of practical and business modules at 45 South Cherries spanning agronomy, machinery, compliance, and biosecurity.
Pukekohe agronomist James Blair (AS Wilcox) took out first place and the speech component, followed by Amber Davy (Canterbury) in second and Amelia Marsden (Nelson) in third place. Maddi who is the Quality and Compliance Manager “Growing” at T&G Global, performed exceptionally well across all modules. The event concluded with a gala dinner at Te Puna Mahara.
HBFA Annual General Meeting (AGM) Notice
Our Annual General Meeting is coming up fast. It is a great opportunity to connect, reflect on the year, and look ahead to how the association can best support you. I encourage you to come and catch up with the team.
- Date & Time: Wednesday 23 September 2026, 6:30pm
- Location: Foodeast Haumako, 4 Hanui Road, Tomoana, Hastings
- Key Deadline: Nominations for Executive Committee positions and Notices of motion must be submitted by Tuesday 1 September 5.00pm
Ngā mihi nui,
Brydon Nisbet
President
Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association
