Although it’s a fun, social event, there’s still some serious cricket commitment involved, with the game running from 6.30am to 6.30pm.
Gaddum said the early start wasn’t universally popular.
“Everyone got sent the draw last week, and there were a few rude remarks,” he laughed.
While Hawke’s Bay is usually dry at this time of year, the forecast isn’t looking too promising for the Cup.
“We’re looking at sunshine through till Friday, then Sunday onwards – and 20 mils on Saturday,” Gaddum said.
Still, he’s staying optimistic.
“I’m pretty confident we’ll get good weather. It just takes a little bit of a miracle and a bit of luck, but I’m sure we’ve got it coming.”
Gaddum said recent rain had lifted spirits in Hawke’s Bay, helping drive grass growth after a severe drought at the end of 2025.
“Into the new year, we got a tremendous amount of rain, and it just sort of hasn’t really stopped.
“It’s turned the season around –we’ve all got smiles on the face and are loving it.”
It’s been just over three years since Cyclone Gabrielle battered the region, and some people are still dealing with the aftermath.
Listen below:
Gaddum — a Farmstrong Champion whose property and wellbeing were affected by Gabrielle — offered advice to those still doing it tough.
He said it was important not to rush and to understand recovery was a long process.
“There was no overnight fix. We were all trying to do it in a hurry at the beginning, but I’d say most people, and certainly myself, have realised that all these fences weren’t built in a year or a day, and it’s just going to take time.”
He said he’s learned to go easy on himself.
“I know I’ve still got places where slips went through, and I’ve patched up two or three times, but haven’t done the job properly.
“I know I’ll get to it, but it’s one of those things we’ve just got to work out finances and time and energy and around our other busy lives, but we’ll get there in the end.”
Also in today’s interview: Gaddum discusses the venison and velvet markets.
