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.
“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.
