The biggest yet
Rural contractors from around the country descended on the Bay of Islands in late June for this year's RCNZ annual conference.
"Canterbury was hit by its worst wind storm in 40 years, which has caused major damage on farms throughout the province," says Steve Levet, president of Rural Contractors New Zealand (RCNZ). "There are also reports of a fair bit of destruction in the North Island as well.
"This has been a tough time for landowners with many needing to carry out big clean-up jobs on their properties. If the farmers don't have the time or the resources to clear up storm damage; they should contact their local rural contractor and ask for help."
Levet adds that some contractors will have already made a start to the baleage and silage season, so it is important farmers do not delay in contacting them for clean-up work that needs urgent attention.
"Rural contractors are experienced in doing this kind of work and have all the necessary machinery and gear to get these kinds of jobs done."
Levet says it is important there is clean-up after the storm as the debris left behind has the potential to cause serious damage to mowers, balers and forage harvesters.
He is also reminding farmers they could be liable for any damage done to machinery – or people – by material left behind by the storms.
"Last week's storms resulted in branches, sticks and other debris being strewn across farms. Major damage can be done even by small sticks (i.e. baler needles) – while flying material from blades could cause injury – or worse – to both people and animals."
Levet advises any farmers looking for a rural contractor to help with their clean-up should go to the RCNZ website – www.ruralcontractors.org.nz – and hit the 'Find a contractor' channel.
