Farmers in drought stricken parts of the North are being encouraged to speak to their banks openly, and sooner rather than later – if they haven’t already.

The West of Northland was this week confirmed as a drought zone, with the Government declaring the area a medium-level adverse event, for the second year running.

As a result, many farmers are being forced to de stock or dry off early, while others have taken advantage of a relatively green Summer in other parts of Northland by grazing them elsewhere in the region.

Kirk Hope, the Chief Executive of The Bankers’ Association, says farmers should never be hesitant to speak to their bankers – and is confident in most cases they will be able to help out or give some leeway – particularly with commodity prices so bullish at the moment.

– CountryTV