Maryanne Black Rural Financial Counsellor spoke on the plight of farmers in the district.
Very dry Autumn resulted in farmers having to purchase hay, followed by a dry Spring putting pressure on water market.
With increase in hay, water and grain prices farmers culled milking cows to reduce herd numbers.
Farmers have access to Household Allowance and increase their borrowings.
Milk production decreased by 23%
Future strategy: further culling and cut feeding to milking herd.
Now focussed on Autumn break, a week by week scenario. Lots of exits with 3,000 stock sold in one week, with farms selling at reduced price.
Support available is Household Allowance, Regional Investment Loans, and some lump-sum payments from charities.