Agricultural Drought Continues Despite Some Rain

Auckland Civil Defence continue to assist The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) and Rural Support Trusts (RST) in response to agricultural drought declarations.

The entire Auckland region remains in a medium-scale declared area which is expected to remain in place for the rest of April. MPI note that the assessment of whether drought declarations can be lifted will not be possible until May at the earliest.

Record low rainfall totals in January and February were followed by a below average March. Some respite for soil moisture conditions and stream flows arrived on 31 March where localised parts of the region received up to 50mm of rain. Long range forecasts indicate that showers and periods of rainfall are likely to become more frequent throughout April.

The Northland and Waikato RSTs have been supporting farmers in response to requests for assistance. A number of events have been held by organisations in the farming sector, including Federated Farmers and Dairy NZ, to provide support and advice to the farming community.

WaterCare reiterate that there is no shortage of water for their supplies. Warkworth continues to be impacted by a local operational situation and residents are reminded to manage their water usage.

Private supplies on Waiheke Island and other rural parts of Auckland continue to rely on the delivery of water by commercial suppliers as required.

The Auckland wide fire ban remains in place.

Advice
Support is available from Government agencies in all regions, even without a drought declaration. Farmers should contact IRD if they need help or flexibility with making tax payments, and standard assistance is available from the Ministry of Social Development.

Farmers have been taking practical steps to deal with the dry, such as destocking and switching to once a day milking. It is important to plan ahead and to ask for help when needed.

Links
MPI faq's
NIWA
Auckland Civil Defence
Rural Support