Record rainfall turns Rhythm and Vines festival into a muddy challenge
Gisborne experienced its wettest December day in nearly 90 years during the Rhythm and Vines festival. Heavy rain on December 30, 2024, left festivalgoers struggling with muddy conditions and slipping hazards. Despite preparations, many attendees felt caught off guard by the extreme weather.
The Gisborne Aero meteorological station recorded the highest December rainfall since 1937, soaking the festival grounds. Lucy Parkinson, a festival attendee, had packed a gazebo, gumboots, and a sturdy tent but still found herself unprepared for the downpour. She later criticised organisers for not communicating the weather risks more clearly.
Festival director Kieran Spillane confirmed that warnings about possible rain were issued in advance. To reduce slipping dangers, extra wood chips were spread across the site. Yet, after two consecutive years of wet festivals, some attendees remained frustrated. Nearby, The Warehouse saw a surge in sales of ponchos, tents, and towels as festivalgoers rushed to stay dry. Store manager Brett Mitchell had prepared for the weather nine months in advance, stocking up on rain gear. He also hired extra cleaning staff to handle the influx of muddy customers. With the forecast now improving, the store has shifted focus to beach items and sunblock for the expected sunny days ahead. The rain is set to clear, with dry and sunny weather predicted for the festival’s final two days. Organisers anticipate the grounds will dry quickly, offering better conditions for attendees.
The record-breaking rain disrupted the festival’s opening but boosted local retail sales. With clearer skies ahead, attendees can now look forward to drier conditions. The event’s organisers and businesses have adjusted their plans to match the changing weather.
