Milk collected, plant operational — Westland

The co-op has also refuted media reports that Westland milk tankers were stranded at Hari Hari yesterday.

Electricity supply to the Hokitika plant remains intact and milk is being processed, says Westland chief executive Toni Brendish.

 “A state of emergency was declared by all three district councils (Buller Grey and Westland) yesterday and while most roads are open, some localised closures remain impacting on our ability to access some farms,” Brendish says.

“A state of emergency was also declared in Christchurch and Selwyn District in Canterbury but there has been no impact on our plant at Rolleston or access to Canterbury suppliers.

“Local authorities are making every effort to get roads open so information on obstacles to access is changing rapidly. Therefore we are asking suppliers with access problems to their farms let us know by calling 03 756 9841 or 03 756 9835.

“At this stage we are hopeful all milk can be collected but we are asking any supplier reaching milk storage capacity to contact us as soon as possible so we can make every effort to get tankers to them.”

Brendish says media reports about Westland Milk tankers being stranded at Hari Hari yesterday were incorrect.

“They were queued at Hari Hari waiting to see if they could get further south but were never cut off and, once advised the road was not going to be open in time, collected milk locally then returned to Hokitika.”