'Keep in mind the plight of affected farmers'

In an email to Federated members, Langford acknowledged the Government’s $4 million support for affected farming communities but says much more will be needed in the coming days and weeks.

“We’re grateful for the government support, but even Ag Minister Damien O’Connor termed the $4m ‘initial’,” says Langford.

“These cyclones have left in their wake damage that will total many hundreds of millions of dollars, if not billions, to put right.

“And big questions are now being asked around whether current roads and utilities networks are in the right place for the future.”

Langford says the priority of Federated Farmers’ elected leaders and staff this week has been on reaching out to isolated farms with communication, electricity and roads access severed to get an accurate handle on their needs.

“We’re working with all the emergency management, support and government agencies, and we’ve contacted the NZ Banking Association, IRD and others to urge flexibility on financial arrangements and deadlines.

“The Kiwi way is to reach out to help those affected.”

Federated Farmers has set up buttons on its website enabling people to lodge donations and offers of things like labour, machinery and generators.

“The fact is it may be a week, even weeks, before farmers hit hardest can work out what would help them most, and be in a position to call in labour help or our Farmy Army,” he says.

“Problem is, by then the sun may well be shining again and many of those unaffected will again be wrapped up in their own busy lives.

“So let’s do our best to keep in mind those whose livelihoods have been smashed.

“This is going to be a long haul to put right – and as we’ve already said to the government, it should be top of their agenda for resources and action.”