A state of drought has been officially declared throughout the entire North Island.

The Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy made the declaration today saying all farmers throughout the north are suffering.

'Local groups have asked for regional declarations of drought in the past week, and it has become clear that nearly all farmers in every part of the North Island are facing very difficult dry conditions.

A drought was officially declared in the Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Hawke's Bay and South Auckland areas on March 6 following the drought declaration in Northland and North Auckland on February 27.

'Extra Government funding will now be available to Rural Support Trusts who work closely with farmers, providing support and guidance.

'There will also be Rural Assistance Payments (RAPs) available from Work and Income, through the Ministry of Social Development. These are equivalent to the unemployment benefit and are available to those in extreme hardship.

The Minister says some rain is forecast this weekend but more is needed to help prepare for winter and next spring.

'Parts of the South Island are also very dry, in particular the Grey and Buller districts. We are keeping a close watch on all further regions.

'I'm very pleased with how communities have pulled together to help each other out. Federated Farmers have been operating a ‘Feedline' to match farmers with feed supplies, which is receiving good interest.

'Beef + Lamb NZ, Dairy NZ, the Ministry for Primary Industries and others have also been providing practical support.

He says farmers should contact their accountants or the IRD if they require help or flexibility with making tax payments and standard hardship assistance if available from Work and Income.
Regularly updated drought information is available at:
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/environment-natural-resources/funding-programmes/primary-sector-recovery/droughts/dry-conditions-2012-13-faqs