Gisborne grape crops largely unaffected by recent rain

So far, so good for grape growers in Gisborne, with no significant impact reported from the two rainstorms to hit the district recently. The start of the harvest is just over a month away. Photo / Gisborne Herald

Prospects look good at this stage for the grape and wine vintage in Gisborne.

Rain events between Christmas and New Year had not had a detrimental effect on the crop, Gisborne Winegrowers chairman Mark Thompson said.

The harvest for 2026 is likely to start next month.

“After a warm, dry spring with no frost events to speak of, the season has got off to a good start,” Thompson said.

“Settled conditions at flowering meant even fruit set with what looks like a reasonable crop over most of the Gisborne district.

“Two large rain events between Christmas and the beginning of the year have not as yet impacted on fruit quality.

“Most grape blocks look clean and relatively disease-free.

“We do not as yet have a firm date for the start of harvest; however, mid to late February is a traditional start time.”