R and V business pours into city

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

CENTRAL Gisborne was packed yesterday as Rhythm and Vines revellers made their way into the city centre to get supplies.

The Warehouse sold out of gumboots and waterproof ponchos, and store manager Melody Davis said people started coming in on Thursday to find warm clothes and other supplies.

“They are after cheaper items like the ponchos that sell for $4 to $6 each. We had to get four pallets of gumboots from our storeroom to replenish supplies and we’ve sold out.”

The Dollar Dream shop also sold out of waterproof ponchos.

“I had 600 more delivered today (Friday) and they sold out in four hours. I might have to get more if the rain continues,” said co-owner Jane Wing.

Heart of Gisborne manager Lana Davy said festival-goers were taking refuge in the CBD because of the unseasonably cold weather.

It was good for business but felt quite surreal, she said.

“Retailers have to make hay while the sun shines, or doesn’t, in this case.”

One first-time festival-goer from Auckland said she was not sure what to expect but was missing her normal healthy diet and finding the conditions a bit challenging.

Her friends were in the CBD shopping for food and warm clothing, she said.

“I only brought one warm sweatshirt. We just didn’t prepare for this.”

Muirs Bookstore cafe was prepared for the influx, with cafe staff remaining until 7pm last night to prepare extra food.