NZ regions hit by Cyclone Gabrielle

Cyclone Gabrielle hit much of New Zealand with Hawkes Bay and Gisborne’s wine growing areas amongst hardest hit.

New Zealand's largest wine region, Marlborough in the South Island, which makes up 80% of production, and is completely sodden, but Hawkes Bay, New Zealand's second largest region making 8% of total production, was devastated. Esk Valley vineyards in particular were badly hit by a river that burst its banks, although inland areas of Hawkes Bay such as the premium Gimblett Gravels were less affected, but slips have caused some damage. Hawkes Bay has a reputation for producing excellent red blends of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Gisborne produces nearly 4% of New Zealand's production and vines for some of the best Chardonnays in the world were badly damaged.