NEW: Click here for the latest advice from MPI
Contact the Rural Support Trust
NIWA: New Zealand climate update
Get the toolkit
You can download the full Extreme Dry Management and Planning Toolkit (PDF, 2MB) or go straight to the section you need:
Meeting the challenges (PDF, 1MB)
Tips on managing stress in challenging times, lessons from past droughts and advice on planning ahead before summer hits.
Supplementary feeding (PDF, 638KB)
Alternative feed options, storage and water are all discussed in this section.
Animal health & welfare (PDF, 148KB)
Good animal husbandry is always important on New Zealand farms but in extreme dry conditions it becomes even more of a priority.
Management hints (PDF, 837KB)
Drought recovery strategies including the decision to ‘wait or mate’, fertiliser management, and managing your pasture when the drought breaks.
Weather
The Met Service provides 10-day forecasts, temperature data and a seasonal outlook for all major rural areas in New Zealand. Be prepared for whatever comes your way with the Met Service website.