Southland and Clutha farmers receive relief after adverse weather declaration

The New Zealand government has classified extreme wet and cold conditions in Southland and the Clutha District as a medium-scale adverse event. This decision aims to provide relief to farmers and growers facing the region's wettest winter since 1980 and a third consecutive difficult spring.

The declaration unlocks several forms of assistance, including up to $50,000 for the Southland and Otago Rural Support Trusts to fund recovery and wellbeing initiatives. It also enables tax relief through more flexible payment timing and allows the Ministry of Social Development to consider Rural Assistance Payments for those unable to meet essential living costs.

Federated Farmers noted that persistent rain has severely limited grass growth, leaving livestock feed levels critically low. While significant stock losses have not yet been reported, officials warned that the lack of growth and extreme conditions could impact lamb survival and growth rates.