Wairarapa and Tararua Drought Declaration

Wairarapa and Tararua Drought Declaration – Thursday 28 March

28 Mar 2024

Mike Butterick

Drought has been declared today in the region and through parts of the North Island. It’s been a long and worrying few months for rural families and many agricultural businesses. We may see some rain over the coming weekend, but this certainly won’t be enough to bring much relief, the extended dry has affected feed supply and this will have a knock-on effect through 2024 for some farmers.

It’s already tough times for the sector, particularly sheep and beef farmers contending with low meat prices globally and inflation at home. This declaration offers some financial respite for those directly affected and I urge all farmers to reach out to Work and Income, your bank and the Rural Support Trust for help right now.

Hopefully the links below will direct you to some useful web pages. Reach out to friends and family. Get in touch with me if I can help.

Mike Butterick
MP for Wairarapa

Direct financial help

Talk to WINZ, your bank and IRD, accountant or advisor about drought relief support.

There is some Work and Income support that you could access.

Tax relief and support

Your accountant and Inland Revenue, can answer questions relating to taxes, including how you can benefit from more flexibility now that drought has been declared.

East Coast Rural Support Trust

Each of the country’s 14 Rural Support Trusts have local, rural people who know from experience that pressures can mount up. Talking to them is confidential, and free of charge. They can connect you with the services you need, whether it's financial and business advice or health services. Freephone 0800 78 72 54 (0800 RURAL HELP).