A storm of events could see a proportion of this year's pipfruit harvest left on the trees

New Zealand Apples and Pears is predicting a decrease of 12 per cent on its pre-season estimate.

Labour shortages and weather events have prevented growers from reaching their full potential.

Apples and Pears Chief Executive Terry Meikle says a multitude of factors including severe weather has affected the harvest.

He says omicron and a drop in the backpacker working holiday visas over the last couple of years, have all had an impact.