Snow devastates Hawke's Bay farmers

Federated Farmers is hearing reports from many farmers who have been badly affected by the snow storm hammering the central North Island.

 

“This brutally cold southerly flow couldn’t have come at a worse time for Hawke’s Bay farmers. There’s a massive risk that the combination of snow and cold winds could put stress on newborn livestock,” says Kevin Mitchell, Federated Farmers Hawke’s Bay president.

 

“Several Hawke’s Bay farmers are in the middle of late lambing and sadly, some newborns may perish in the freezing conditions. The snow has unfortunately hit at a critical time in the farming cycle. Farmers I have spoken to worked through the night in order to save as many lambs as possible.

 

“The central North Island high country and hills and ranges of Hawke’s Bay have been hit particularly hard by the unexpected icy blast. Properties over 300 metres above sea level awoke this morning to a blanket of white ranging from 20cm to a metre deep.

 

“I’d have to say this is the worst blast of cold weather I’ve experienced for many years. The area is still littered with fallen trees that have collapsed under the weight of the snow.

 

“Roads remain impassable and power has been cut to large sections of the region. While most farmers have a generator, those who don’t will struggle to fend off the cold and may need to seek help.

 

“This morning I spoke with a couple that farms the highest dairy operation in New Zealand. They have been without power for two days and have not milked their herd since early Sunday morning.

 

“Federated Farmers provincial presidents are a point of contact for farmers struggling in the conditions. We can help get supplies to a farm, provide updated information on the weather conditions and make sure farmers are looking out for each other.

 

“I’ve spoken with our provincial presidents in Tararua, Ruapehu and Taupo, where the overnight snowfall was less damaging. They have been gathering information throughout the day and reporting back to civil defence.

 

“As well as visiting farms to offer support and assistance, Federated Farmers is helping to clear fences and driveways of fallen trees. We may also be able to provide feed to keep as much condition on stock as possible.

 

“Hawke’s Bay farmers must remain vigilant, as the MetService predicts more snow will drop tonight. It will predominately fall on central North Island areas including the Hawke’s Bay ranges from Lake Waikaremoana to the Mahia Peninsula,” Mr Mitchell concluded.