Drought

The eastern side of Tararua district has been officially declared a drought area by Horizons Regional Council hitting farmers for the second consecutive year.


Horizons chairman Garrick Murfitt made the decision last week, applying drought status across the region.


Similar moves have been made by Wellington Regional Council in Wairarapa where the eastern side in particular is also affected.


Minister of Agriculture Jim Anderton will visit Pahiatua on Thursday to meet with mayor Reynolds, Masterton district mayor Garry Daniell, councillors and farming leaders to discuss the Government’s position on drought relief.


Following in the wake of last year’s drought the situation for Tararua’s eastern farmers was “particularly concerning,” Tararua mayor Maureen Reynolds said.


“The council will ensure that the government is aware of our region’s situation and we await some support.”


Meanwhile the East Coast Rural Support Trust has been activated to assist farming families who are under pressure.