Lisa Arnold
Massey University & WSP
Environmental Consultant, WSP
Lisa.arnold@wsp.com
This case study investigated five stonefruit orchards that were impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle to varying degrees and located across different parts of Hawke’s Bay, including Esk Valley, Bay View, Meeanee and Tomoana. Peach, nectarine, plum and apricot were planted at these orchards.
Qualitative interviews were conducted in January-February 2024 for each orchard, to document and understand which areas were affected by the cyclone, how they were affected (i.e. waterlogging, sediment deposition, wind damage), any management approaches taken, and future plans for the orchards. Follow up interviews were conducted in September 2025 to document how the orchards were faring, including changes to orchard plantings and management approaches, and any notable observations.
The main cause of tree deaths and declining tree health across the five orchards was likely to have been due to hypoxic soil conditions resulting from prolonged waterlogging and/or sediment deposition. Plantings across all orchards were on Golden Queen peach rootstock which is highly intolerant of hypoxic soil conditions. Drainage of flood water appears to have played a key role in the health and survival of trees.
As at September 2025, some adversely affected plantings have been removed, and replanted in stonefruit or apples. Esk Valley blocks were severely impacted and have not returned to production.
This work provides a case study of stonefruit orchards across Hawke’s Bay, documenting two different points in time, approximately 1 year and 2½ years after Cyclone Gabrielle. The findings from this study provide valuable insights and may support decision-making for growers impacted by future events.