The Government has declared the recent damaging storm in Hawke’s Bay to be a medium scale adverse event, and has promised assistance to those farmers who need it.
Massive slips and flood damage affect about 100 farms between Cape Kidnappers and Porangahau, with some coastal properties losing up to 60 per cent of the soil on their paddocks.
Minister of Agriculture David Carter says it could be spring or summer before permanent fencing is restored.
Help is available to farmers and those in need through Work and Income and the East Coast Rural Support Trust is funded to provide counselling services.
Federated Farmers, East Coast Rural Support Trust, PGG Wrightson and Farmlands are working to get a recovery package together.
A dedicated phone line for farmers in the Hawke’s Bay who are able to “adopt” stock from affected farms has been established.
The number is 0800 376 844, or email admin@fedfarm.org.nz .
