Drought

The Tararua District is very susceptible to droughts over the warmer months (November – May). This can cause many adverse effects to our residents, from water shortages for our urban residents to water issues and stock feed issues for our rural residents.

How Can I Prepare?

The best way to prepare for a drought is to build resilience in your own home. With water scarcity a pressing problem for many densely populated regions, rainwater harvesting systems can supply households and businesses with water for use in dry seasons and lessen the demand on water reticulation networks.

Water Conservation Tips | Tararua District Council

Support for Rural Communities

This page will hold information and advice for people in rural areas who are impacted by unprecedented events.

We will add information to this page as it becomes available.

Dealing with drought conditions | Ministry for Primary Industries

Information and Advice

There are a number of organisations that are here to help and provide support. You can contact these organisations directly.

You will find external support services available to our rural communities. Please note: this is a non-exhaustive list.

Stock Feed Planning Service

Industry groups and the Ministry for Primary Industries have launched a stock feed planning service for all farmers nation-wide.

Toll free numbers; drystock farmers call 0800 BEEFLAMB (0800 233 352), dairy sector 0800 4DAIRYNZ (0800 4 324 7969).

Joint media release | Beef + Lamb NZ

Psychological Support Service

Rural Support Trust continues to provide its psychosocial support service: 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP) by talking over the phone or on skype/zoom. This can help connect farming families with professionals including farming or business advice, suppliers, financial information, health, and counselling services. Their services are free and confidential.