Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) staff are working with and in regular contact with the local Rural Support Trust, to gauge the full extent of the damage and whether a formal adverse event classification is warranted.

“We will provide targeted support to affected farmers and growers where it is needed most,” Mr McClay says.

“I am also talking with local MP and Associate Agriculture Minister Mike Butterick, a Wairarapa farmer himself, to make sure everything possible is being done for the region to be well prepared for further weather events over the coming week.

“MetService is forecasting further periods of heavy rain across the region over the coming week. I encourage farmers and growers to keep a close watch on weather warnings and to act early to protect their stock, infrastructure and properties.

“That means moving stock to safer ground where possible, reviewing feed and supply plans, and making sure animal welfare comes first through what is a tough stretch of winter.”

Farmers and growers needing support can contact the Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254. For animal welfare advice or assistance during adverse weather, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33.

“MPI continues to monitor weather warnings and watches nationwide, and the Government stands ready to scale up its response if more is required,” Mr McClay says.

“I want to thank the Rural Support Trust in the Wairarapa for their hard work and commitment.”