Government support for flood-hit Kaikōura farmers

The Government is providing $50,000 to the Farmers Adverse Events Trust to support flood-affected Kaikōura farmers, with Federated Farmers to match the funding through fundraising, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.

"Kaikōura received double its average July rainfall in just two days, triggering flooding and slips that have damaged farms, livestock feed, and vital infrastructure such as roads and fences," Mr McClay says.

"The immediate priority is animal welfare. Ministry for Primary Industries staff are on the ground working with farmers, sector groups, and the Rural Support Trust to move an estimated 4,000 animals off flood-affected land and onto safe grazing.

"Farmers and growers elsewhere, including in Otago and the Wairarapa, are still feeling the effects of recent severe weather, and we're continuing to assess whether further support is needed as the full extent of the damage becomes clear.

"In the meantime, I'd encourage farmers to stay across MetService forecasts and take precautions, including moving livestock to safe ground."

Farmers and growers needing assistance can contact the Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254. Those with animal welfare concerns can phone MPI on 0800 00 83 33. ...