Drought conditions in top of south classed 'medium-scale adverse event'

Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay has classified the drought conditions in the top of the South Island as a "medium-scale adverse event".

Speaking on the classification, McClay said parts of Marlborough, Tasman and Nelson districts are in the grip of an intense dry spell.

"I know this has made day-to-day conditions on the ground extremely tough for farmers and growers."

"It it clear conditions are tough. This decision will unlock further support for farmers and growers, including tax support."

Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson said the classification is on top of funding of up to $20,000 made available to the Top of the South Rural Support Trust last month.

MPI has been working with central agencies, sector groups, regional bodies, and farmers and growers across the country to prepare for El Niño since its arrival last year.

The official classification request was previously made to McClay by Federated Farmers on two occasions.

Speaking to 1News earlier this week, Federated Farmers Marlborough's Evan White said the classification would allow farmers to easily defer tax payments and access emergency funds they have already set aside.

South Marlborough experienced its driest June to December period in the 94 years of rainfall records, receiving 187.6mm across the second half of 2023.