"Serious Worry": Tairāwhiti Growers Face "Domino Effect" as Cyclone Vaianu Looms

Tairāwhiti kiwifruit and persimmon growers fear a "domino effect" as Cyclone Vaianu approaches, threatening a region already struggling with high fuel costs and fragile roads.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 7:56 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

A Critical Harvest Under Threat

The timing of the storm is particularly perilous for Gisborne’s high-value horticultural exports.

Persimmon Industry at Risk: The Ngāi Tukairangi Trust, which oversees approximately 75% of New Zealand’s persimmon exports out of Gisborne, is just one week away from harvest.

The "Domino Effect": Trust chair Ratahi Cross described the confluence of a looming cyclone, unfinished road repairs from previous storms, and skyrocketing fuel prices as a mounting disaster.

Race Against Time: Growers are working around the clock to move as much fruit as possible off the trees to limit exposure to wind and rain.

The Logistics Nightmare: Rerouting and Fuel Costs