Hawke's Bay prepared for potential Super El Niño weather
Friday 9 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Hawke's Bay growers are preparing for a possible Super El Niño event. The phenomenon could bring months of hot and dry weather to the region. Local organic apple growers are bracing for the shift following a period of wet conditions.
Key facts
3 facts
- Super El Niño is expected to bring hot, dry weather to Hawke's Bay starting in November
- Bayleaf Organics operates a 39-hectare orchard
- Fuel prices have nearly tripled the cost of filling a tractor
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Hawke's Bay is preparing for a Super El Niño that is expected to bring hot, dry weather for several months. The full force of the weather pattern is anticipated to hit the region in November.
At Bayleaf Organics, Craig and Wendy Dowling are preparing their 39-hectare orchard for potential hail and harsh frosts. They use tools such as shade cloths to protect Granny Smith apples from sunburn and frost, and they also apply organic sunscreen.
Growers are also managing concerns regarding record fuel prices and the impact of fruit processing factory closures. To prepare for increased water demand, the Dowlings are performing maintenance on irrigation systems and micro sprinklers.
At Te Mata Estate winery, head viticulturist Brenton O'Riley noted that the season has already seen intense frost fighting.
Compiled from reports by RNZ and Newsroom.
