Minister of Agriculture David Carter has declared drought in the Bay of Plenty. It is now one of nine districts to be officially in medium-level drought; Northland, Waikato, South Canterbury, Otago, South Taranaki, Rodney, Papakura and Manukau.

This declaration brings with it good news for farmers in the Bay as they are able to apply for government drought relief measures after managing through the build-up dry period with no help.
The declaration of a medium-level drought triggers an assistance package that covers farm management advice, welfare support and funding for Rural Support Trusts. In addition Inland Revenue will offer some flexibility within its Income Equalisation Scheme.
"The measures approved today will mobilise local Rural Support Trusts to provide support for farmers coping with financial, social or farm management concerns," says David.