West Coast resilience tested
DairyNZ head consulting officer in the South Island, Tony Finch, says his first priority has been to get an accurate assessment of the extent of the damage on farms affected by the floods.
The Government has activated Enhanced Task Force Green (ETFG) in response to the West Coast and Marlborough floods, Social Development and Employment Minister Carmel Sepuloni has announced.
“To assist with the clean-up, up to $500,000 will be made available to support the recovery in Buller and Marlborough which has experienced significant damage particularly to farmland, vineyards, homes, roads and bridges,” Sepuloni said.
She said the funding would allow job seekers to be employed to help farmers and growers clear debris and complete clean-up work on their properties.
“Government is keen to ensure that local job seekers will be used wherever possible due to pressure on accommodation, particularly on the West Coast.
“Through this funding we’re expecting up to 30 job seekers to be employed to help out on the ground for a maximum of 12 weeks,” Sepuloni said.
Across the West Coast and Marlborough, damage assessments are being carried out.
Sepuloni said the Ministry for Social Development will work with agencies to make sure ETFG assistance is provided as soon as possible to farmers and growers that need this support.
A Chinese business leader says Chinese investors are unfairly viewed as potential security risks in New Zealand.
In the first of two articles focusing on electrification in New Zealand, Leo Argent talks with Mike Casey, operator of the 100% electric-operated Electric Cherries orchard and founder of advocacy group Rewiring Aotearoa.
A Foundation for Arable Research initiative which took a closer look at the efficiency of a key piece of machinery for arable farmers - their combine harvesters - has been recognised at the Primary Industry NZ Awards.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has reiterated New Zealand’s ‘China And’ policy, adding that it wasn’t about choosing one market over another but creating more options for exporters.
A long running trade dispute between New Zealand and Canada over dairy access has been resolved.
New Zealand Police is urging rural property owners to remain vigilant and ensure their property is secure.
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