The drought has not stopped farmers from recruiting staff says the CEO of Federated Farmers.

Conor English says whatever the weather farmers still need good keen workers.

'We need to knock a myth that farming roles are low-skilled and low paid.

'We have been motivated to raise our head above the parapet because we have heard of several hundred Aucklanders queuing for a couple of jobs packing shelves. Federated Farmers wants to say loudly and proudly; have a look at farming.

Scattered rain forecast during the next week will be welcomed, but it won't be enough to break drought conditions, says Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.

'We still need plenty more rain to help grass growth before the colder weather settles in.”

While many farmers struggle with the on-going impacts of the big dry, Nathan says New Zealanders have rallied to help drought-affected communities.

'It's encouraging to see a range of support available from not just the Government, but also businesses and communities.

'Federated Farmers have run a series of ‘farming in drought' field days and have been organising shipments of feed from the South Island to the North, which have been gratefully received.

Fonterra's announcement it will be increasing milksolids pay-out and earlier advance payments means early cash flow of around $100,000 for the average farmer, which will help with extra feed costs created by the drought.

'It's also pleasing that IRD have offered flexibility in the timing of tax payments, and many banks are offering special packages to help those affected by the drought.

'Many rural people can be reluctant to ask for help, but I would urge farmers to make use of the good advice and support available from their local Rural Support Trusts. These organisations now have increased funding from the Government to help their local communities.

'This is really important for those in regions like the West Coast who aren't used to dealing with such dry conditions. I will be visiting the Coast on Wednesday to see how they are coping.

'I would also urge lifestyle block owners to seek advice or attend field days if they are not used to dealing with these conditions,” says Nathan.

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

And: http://www.ird.govt.nz/news-updates/like-to-know-update-for-farmers.html