Preparing for a Godzilla El Niño
Summary
Host Sharon Brett-Kelly visits Hawke's Bay to explore how local growers are preparing for a severe "Godzilla" El Niño event. At Bayleaf Organics, orchardists Wendy and Craig Dowling discuss managing irrigation, fuel costs, and industry closures while protecting their apple crops. The episode also features Brenton O'Reilly from Te Mata Estate, who explains viticultural strategies like cover crops and vine stress monitoring to mitigate drought risks. Together, these stories highlight the resilience of New Zealand's fruit and wine industries as they brace for extreme heat and dry conditions.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Pruning at Bayleaf Organics Orchard
Context: Hawke's Bay and the 'Godzilla' El Nino threat
Interview with Wendy and Craig Dowling on El Nino impacts
Orchard preparation: Irrigation maintenance and aquifer concerns
Critical growth stages: Flowering and early cell division
Managing risks: Hail, frost, and wildfire prevention
Long-term resilience: Summer pruning and water demand
Economic pressures: The fuel crisis and rising costs
Industry challenges: Factory closures and liquidations
Perspective: Relief from recent wet weather and cyclones
On-site tour: Shade cloths and organic sunscreen sprays
Personal resilience: The emotional toll of farming
Transition to Te Mata Estate and meeting Brenton O'Reilly
Winery operations: Forecasting and current blending activities
Frost fighting: Windmills and fans during El Nino nights
Soil health: Cover crops and moisture retention strategies
Infrastructure checks: Bores, pumps, and climate uncertainty
Crucial timing: Flowering peak and dry summer benefits
Business outlook: Oversupply, fuel, and input cost management
Cellar tour, vine stress measurement, and climate future
Listen ad-free on Castria