1:57PM Tuesday March 18, 2008
Taranaki is the latest region to declare a drought after a prolonged dry spell in the area.
Taranaki Regional Council declared a drought today as farmers struggled to deal with the conditions.
There has been no sufficient rain since November and no rain was predicted until May.
South Taranaki District Mayor Ross Dunlop said the drought declaration would open up new avenues of government assistance for farmers.
"The council is formally asking the Government, and in particular Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton, to provide all reasonable assistance to farmers suffering undue stress as a result of this extreme situation."
He said the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry was offering financial and welfare assistance to affected farmers through the region's Rural Support Trust.
Trustee Neville Hagenson said two coordinators were available to visit farmers in trouble.
Mr Hagenson said coordinators could provide advice and refer farmers to government departments like WINZ and the IRD.
"Our coordinators can go and sit down around the table and talk. Just say, hey, what are your problems and perhaps make suggestions," he said.
Farmers needing help can call 0800 787 254.
Financial assistance included the unemployment benefit, emergency benefit, special needs grants and recoverable assistance payments.
The drought had been declared in the area of coastal Taranaki extending south from Okato, 35km from New Plymouth, through all of South Taranaki District to the region's southern boundary, and including southern and eastern parts of the Stratford District.
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