North Island farmers weather more storms
"Parts of the North Island, including Northland and the East Coast have received between 200 and 300 mls of rain in little more than 48 hours, in this latest severe weather event," David Rose, Federated Farmers adverse events spokesperson said.
"Luckily, Northland farmers in particular are accustomed to large rainfalls at this time of year and reports so far indicate they were prepared in advance, having moved stock and stored additional food for them.
"Likewise, the East Coast, from Gisborne to Hawke's Bay, has received about two months worth of rain in about 24 hours. There seems to be some localised flooding and slips, but farmers seem to have weathered the deluge well thanks to timely warnings.
"Very strong winds yesterday have caused havoc in Taranaki for the second time within a month. Our provincial president is still assessing the situation around the region, but unlike the storm earlier this month which hit the farming area of central Taranaki, the coastal and northern areas of the region have been hit harder this time.
"We are now just watching to see what effect tonight's rain, forecast for the upper North Island, will have on already sodden land. Hopefully, this will pass through quickly, with less effect than forecast," Mr Rose concluded.