Farmers welcome drought declaration

Parts of Northland have had their driest February since records began. Last week the government declared a state of drought in Northland, and other regions are expected to follow soon.

“This is recognition that we are now beyond what is a normal dry summer, and into an extreme climatic event,” says Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy. “The entire North Island is extremely dry, but Northland is one of the worst-hit areas.”

The drought decision was made after receiving advice from the Ministry for Primary Industries, soil moisture data from NIWA, and in consultation with the local community. It applies to the area north of the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Farmers have been taking practical steps to deal with the dry, such as destocking and switching to once a day milking.

Northland MP Mike Sabin has welcomed the drought declaration, which means coordinated support measures can now take effect and farmers can get the help that they need. The Kaipara has been particularly hard hit.

Beef and Lamb New Zealand, Federated Farmers, DairyNZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries are all working to help farmers get through this tough period, says Mr Sabin.