Electricity is the main concern for North Canterbury farmers

Following the 7.1 magnitude earthquake this morning to the West of Christchurch, Federated Farmers is thankful there are only minimal reports of injury. For North Canterbury’s farmers, electricity is now the major concern for domestic water as well as for farm operations.

“While reports are still coming in, it seems North Canterbury between Dunsandel and the Waimakariri River has suffered the brunt of damage in the rural sector,” says Neil Stott, Federated Farmers North Canterbury provincial president.

“Can I first ask neighbours to check on their neighbours. This is a time for people to come together while we work with officials to assess what’s needed.

“Farmers are currently checking essential farm infrastructure. My dairy chairperson, Kieran Stone, has received reports of damage near Burnham involving a vat and reports of damage to a milking platform.

“My grains and seeds chairperson, Murray Rowlands, has confirmed damage to some grain silos around Darfield. We will learn of more over the next few hours and days.

“Kieran Stone has told me it could be up to two-days before power is fully restored so electricity is the main concern. On top of that, the MetService has also issued a weather warning for Sunday covering the region.

“Thankfully, a number of farmers have invested in backup generators but these are a short-term fix. The welfare of livestock will now be of prime concern to farmers and we appreciate the offers now coming in from fellow farmers.

“We would like to join officials in requesting that mobile phone use be restricted to essential calls. Farmers will be trying to arrange for generators and essential repairs.

“Federated Farmers has also checked with Fonterra and they will know more after midday.

“After speaking to Synlait, a power outage at its factory is seeing jammed lines being cleared but the power is back on. Some Synlait suppliers have reported structural damage to milking platforms and are arranging alternate milking options with neighbouring farmers.

“Synlait is also diverting some supply, around four tankers, to New Zealand Dairies under an agreement it has with that company.

“Can I ask affected farmers in North Canterbury to call me on 03 318 8577 so I can help initially coordinate things if farmers do need assistance.

“Once we get a clearer picture, it seems that we’re going to need a number of skilled tradespeople over the next few weeks,” Mr Stott concluded.