Good outlook for winter and wine

The violent weather experienced across the Bay of Plenty last week looks likely to settle as calmer skies are predicted for the region.

According to NIWA’s 90-day forecast New Zealand is expected to experience a drier late winter, perfect for wine makers.

Seasonal rainfall totals are expected to be below normal and this, combined with average temperature means

Niwa senior climate scientist Dr Brett Mullan says seasonal rainfall totals are expected to be below normal.

"Late winter is still a bit early to see swimmers, but the prospect of drier weather on the way will be welcome news for many," says Brett.

Brett expected the worst of the unusually heavy rain, that caused chaos around the country last week, was over.

Mills Reef wine maker Tim Preston says much of the vine’s crucial growing period is dependent on the winter snap. 

“NIWA’s winter prediction will give us the long dry summer we like. The outlook for the 2013 vintage is looking really good.

“The growth experienced last year was a really good year. And the vines are set up for a really good year, this year too,” says Tim.