Drought help extended

The Government yesterday extended drought relief to a further four regions - Bay of Plenty, South Taranaki and parts of South Canterbury and Otago.

Agriculture Minister David Carter said significant parts of both islands were now in drought, and many farmers were facing a tough winter.

Help will include tax assistance, farm management advice, welfare support and funding for Rural Support Trusts.

On April 8, the Government declared a medium-level drought in the Waikato, Rodney, Papakura and Manukau districts.

Drought was declared in Northland in late January.