Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has been working with Federated Farmers, the Rural Support Trust and other industry organisations in a “Team Agriculture” response to the 7.8 earthquake that struck the North Canterbury/Kaikoura region two weeks ago.
Coordinating volunteers has been part of the initial response, as well as preparing essential resources – such as health and safety requirements for volunteer labour – and running community-based information meetings.
Kelvin Whall is leading B+LNZ’s earthquake response. He says the need for volunteers will be on-going in the weeks and months ahead, as farmers look to repair fences, tracks and undertake land remediation.
He urges those willing to volunteer their time and/or equipment to phone Federated Farmers’ earthquake response hotline (0800 327 646) and register their interest.
“Taking a coordinated approach ensures we make the most efficient and effective use of available resources.
“This will be a long-term recovery effort and B+LNZ will be providing whatever support it can to affected farmers.”
Access continues to be a challenge for many affected farmers, as are water supplies and access to information. The Inland Road is gradually becoming more accessible, allowing contractors, stock trucks, milk tankers and other essential agricultural-related traffic to begin using the route.
