New Zealand: Growers plead for swifter cyclone action

Cyclone-ravaged growers have penned an open letter to the government in a desperate quest for action. They say that many government ministers have visited the affected areas, and various government departments have asked for and received data and information on the cyclone’s impacts to the horticulture industry, leading to a nationwide impression of responsiveness – but the reality is less reassuring. It is now more than two months since Cyclone Gabrielle struck, causing widespread devastation to commercial fruit and vegetable growing in Hawke’s Bay, Tairāwhiti, Northland and northern Manawatū. In the letter, published on Wednesday, April 19, HorticultureNZ says the delay in providing direction and announcing further support is affecting growers and regions. On April 5 the government announced a further $23 million for farmers and growers to help rebuild, bringing total government support so far to $78m. The letter acknowledges the government’s swift response to the immediate ...