Many farmers will face extra challenges with feed supply because of Cyclone Gabrielle, plus the roading network is still vulnerable and it won’t take much rain to cause more closed roads and disruption through the winter. 
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The earlier farmers make decisions, the more control they will have over winter feeding which will affect animal welfare, avoid unnecessary stress and safeguard returns. Farmers are encouraged to re-consider the risks and measures in place to manage these.

This year many farmers may face one of more or the following:

• Holding stock on farm for longer than normal, which has increased feed demand.
• Loss of pasture and crops available because of slips, siltation, other damage and restricted internal access.
• Challenges to winter grazing management.

*To make robust decisions, doing a simple feed stocktake along with a feed budget can help you plan for this winter’s additional challenges. Collating a stocktake will help you to crunch the numbers and make robust decisions. Talk with your farm adviser, Beef + Lamb NZ or Dairy NZ regional advisers for practical advice.

​*The National Feed Coordination Service helps match people with grazing or supplementary feed for sale to those who need it. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and Federated Farmers have restarted the service to help farmers facing pressure on stock feed. To offer or request feed or grazing, freephone 0800 FARMING (0800 32 76 46) or visit www.fedfarmers.org.nz.

*Farmers in Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti faced with obstacles transporting livestock to meat processing plants and saleyards, can contact the MPI Livestock coordinator for support/advice. Contact Leonie Ward: ph 029 8940752, email leonie.ward@mpi.govt.nz.

​*MPI’s On Farm Support (OFS) team provides on-the-ground assistance for farmers and growers across New Zealand. The service connects farmers and growers with extension services, funding and advice that will help in the transition to more sustainable practices and in the planning for climate change and adverse weather events. 

​To access the service phone 0800 707 133 or email onfarmsupport@mpi.govt.nz