Australian teams to help repair North Canterbury irrigators after storm
Moves are afoot to get a team of Australians over here to help repair North Canterbury's irrigation machinery, ravaged by the big windstorm of late October.
Rural insurer FMG says it has lodged almost 1500 claims following Cyclone Gabrielle.
The farmer-owned co-operative says it is doing everything it can to support impacted clients.
“Firstly, our thoughts go out to all those impacted, and we encourage clients to keep their personal safety, and that of their family and staff top of mind when assessing damage” says Karen Williams, FMG’s rural propositions manager.
“As you would expect the claims coming in are mostly for water damage to property, vehicles, and contents.
“We appreciate communication and electricity lines are challenging in some places, so we want clients to know we have options when it comes to lodging a claim, either now, or when connectivity improves in their area,” says Williams.
FMG says there are two ways clients can lodge a claim: either call them on 0800 366 466 or via FMG Connect on their website.
Given the size and scale of this event, along with road access challenges, it will take time to get assessors out.
“Some of our assessing team have begun seeing clients, and we’ll be prioritising our most vulnerable clients first,” says Williams.
“We appreciate things are difficult right now. Please know that when you’re ready and able to get in touch, we’re here and ready to help with your claim.”
Additional reductions to costs for forest owners in the Emissions Trading Scheme Registry (ETS) have been announced by the Government.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
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Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.