Kiwifruit growers still assessing crops after Cyclone Vaianu

Checkpoint · Apr 13, 2026 · 6m

Kiwifruit growers are still assessing their crops after Cyclone Vaianu blew through some of Aotearoa's biggest growing districts over the weekend. Bay of Plenty, the kiwifruit growing capital and Tairawhiti experienced high winds and heavy rain at a critical time for the industry. The harvest is underway, but the majority of the fruit is still on the vines, both green and gold varieties. Overall the Kiwi Fruit Growers Association say damage has been contained, but a small number of growers have been hit harder. Colin Bond spoke to Lisa Owen.