More regions expect drought declarations today

Photo / Mark Mitchell

Drought is expected to be declared in another six regions today.

They are Manawatu, Rangitikei, Wairarapa, Gisborne, Whanganui and Taranaki.

Federated Farmers spokesman Andrew Hoggard said recognition of the difficulties farmers are facing will help, but what is really needed is rain.

"What I have heard we're in a soil moisture deficit of about 125 to 150 millimetres, so we're looking at needing at least that amount of rain over a sustained period," said Mr Hoggard.

Rain is expected in many parts of the country over the weekend, particularly on Sunday.

Drought has already been declared by the Minister of Primary Industries in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, the Bay of Plenty and Hawke's Bay.