News
Support For Exhausted Farmers Increases Fast
* Over 200 Southland dairy farms are still using generators to keep milking operations running * Support hubs offer food, showers and laundry to help isolated and exhausted rural residents * PowerNet and emergency teams continue working to restore power and support communication More than 200 dairy farms across Southland have continued operating
Mike Sanford
Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds is pleased that Government financial support is coming Southland’s way.
“It’s good that the Government has acted so quickly, contributing $100,000 to help Southland communities impacted by Thursday’s severe weather event.
“The funds will go to the Southland District Council’s Mayoral Relief Fund for immediate needs, including local welfare, resilience and recovery efforts.
“Mayoral Relief Funds are intended to help fill gaps quickly — where an immediate need exists. It’s not a replacement for insurance or costs covered by other funding sources.
“A medium-scale classification has also been declared for this weather event, unlocking further support for farmers and growers, which could include tax relief.
“It also enables the Ministry of Social Development to consider Rural Assistance Payments, along with activating Enhanced Taskforce Green.
“The way that the people of Invercargill and Southland have come together and supported each other during this time has been tremendous.
“Our emergency services staff have also done an incredible job – including Civil Defence, Emergency Management Southland, Police and Fire, Council staff, SouthRoads and Downer staff, working long hours to keep people safe, clear debris and get power and communications restored.
“PowerNet estimates 500 poles and lines came down across the region – that’s a huge number and PowerNet staff should be congratulated for the incredible job that they’re doing to get power restored.
“As of yesterday (Monday), about 6,250 Southlanders remained without power – we are thinking of you all and hope that electricity is restored soon.
“This also means that some rural schools around Southland may not open today (Tuesday).
“Well done to Federated Farmers, Southland Rural Support Trust and the Ministry of Primary Industries for helping local people, while it was a great relief to get the Air Force involved in bringing generators South.
“In the meantime, farmers and growers who require support are encouraged to contact their local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254