Tough start for farmers, growers

TOLAGA BAY: Strewn hay bales in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell

Ballance Agri-Nutrients has established a comprehensive weather relief response package that includes a $1 million donation to the Rural Support Trust to provide on-the-ground support.

Ballance chief executive Mark Wynne said the package was in response to devastation caused by recent weather events.

“From cyclones and weather bombs in the North Island to droughts in the South Island, our rural communities have had a tough start to 2023.

“Our Super Air teams responded immediately after the bad weather hit, checking on farmers and growers and dropping off supplies.

“In some cases the Super Air pilot was the first person they had seen or heard from in days,” Mr Wynne said.

“We will continue to serve cut-off communities with a focus on food and animal health products for as long as needed.”

As a farmer and grower cooperative, Ballance Agri-Nutrients were looking ahead to the support that will be needed over the coming months and possibly years.

“Recovery from extreme weather events takes time and has an impact on families, livestock, businesses and personal wellbeing.

“We will work with the Rural Support Trust, a national organisation run by a team of 350 people — rural people supporting rural people.

Rural Support Trust chair Neil Bateup said the organisation was very grateful for the understanding and support that has come from the community. Every dollar donated will be used to help the primary sector's recovery efforts.

Rural Support Trust have set up a Givealittle page and encourage people to donate money, not goods, to help farmers and growers.