Be prepared!

He says there is a risk that many people - both on farms and in the supply chain - will be off work sick and that disruption and delays will be the order of the day.

Holdaway, who milks cows in Tararua, says farmers have to think differently and be prepared for the day when they cannot go down to their local farm supply store and get an item straight away. He believes farmers need to have a good plan for disposing of their cull cows.

"This could have some long term implications for the way we think about our businesses as well and a lot will depend on relationships. I have always tried to build relationships with people, not take the cheapest or best price on the day but build some trust and relationships, and I expect some in return. This situation could go on for months," he says.

Holdaway says there are other issues such as staff shortages and that will add to increased workloads and stress on farm and could affect health and safety.

"My plea to farmers is to think about these issues and to start planning, and do it today," he says.