Ranginui No. 12 Trust Orchard Update

Tēnā koutou,

Now that we are moving into the fourth week since the rain event that so tragically took lives at Whaaroa and later that morning at Mauao, I would like to share an update on how Ranginui No. 12 Trust has been affected.

On Thursday morning, 22 January, I visited Ngapeke Orchard and discovered a slip blocking the orchard entrance and spilling onto Welcome Bay Road. A much larger slip was then identified, running from the top near the loading area down into a kiwifruit block below.

Due to the type of material that has come down from this site, we have had to wait for it to dry sufficiently before machinery can safely operate under the kiwifruit canopy to begin clearing it. Our orchard manager initially sent in a team to clear around the plants to allow oxygen back into the soil and plant roots. This is critical for plant health and ensuring their survival for future production.

Beyond the recovery of the kiwifruit block, there is a much larger issue at hand — the recovery of the whenua and the stability of the sidlings. The Trustees are seeking further advice from geotechnical specialists and contractors to stabilise these areas and identify any additional areas of concern.

Further assessments of both Ngāti He and Te Kōtuku orchards have been positive, with no reported damage. Our Trust kaimahi have continued operating in their roles, maintaining the orchards and preparing as we move closer to harvest season.

Nga mihi

Brad Ririnui