It’s gone from bad to worse for orchards this season, as rain floods properties and workers are left without jobs as cherries are abandoned. 

An orchard manager from an orchard management business in Cromwell, who chose not to be named, said the rain has caused devastation for some, while others try and persist. 

“[The situation is] poor, most orchards have cut people that were due to start,” he said. 

“We had already picked about 200 tonne before the rain, and had 400 to go. 

“We probably lost 150 tonnes of what was left to go, and it’s still raining. 

“Guys in Alex down Earnscleugh Road have been smashed, with Fraser River and tributaries flooding - it’s gone into some blocks of trees, ruining this year's crop and potentially the health and viability of the trees long term. Roots need oxygen, no oxygen is available for them in water. 

“So it’s pretty rough, so many hours of frost fighting, spraying, fertilizing, a lot of heart, soul and money out, for no reward. 

“We have a few growers in our group who have walked away, most will try to pick through it.” 

Clyde Orchards posted photos of surface flooding on Facebook. PHOTO: Clyde Orchards. 

Clyde Orchards took to social media on Monday to share the flooding on their property. 

Their post included the caption detailing the impact. 

“It’s been a crazy few days! Close to 100mm of rain, 10ha flooded and our camping ground evacuated. 

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“We’ve suffered a bit of damage to our crops but today (Monday) the sun is shining, tracks are being cleared, blocks are draining and the pickers are picking. 

“Tomorrow we will start packing with the commitment to supply the best cherries to NZ and the world. 

“Big shout out to all of our committed team who are putting in the mahi to keep things rolling. #ifitwaseasyeveryonewoulddoit!” 

Clyde Orchards camping area was flooded and evacuated.

Tim Officer, of Dunstan Hills Orchard, said the weather has made things difficult. 

“Well it’s still raining,” he said. “We are assessing damage today, I’m out picking. 

“I’ve heard of a few orchards that are walking away from fruit. 

“It’s looking average to say the least.”