New Zealand Farmers Feel the Heat

CHAN:
Farmers in New Zealand's North Island are feeling the heat, as continued hot weather is biting into the countries vital dairy production. Here's more from our reporter Gina Shakespear.

STORY:
Dry conditions may be good for beach goers here in New Zealand but not for the countries sheep, beef and dairy sector, who have said that this is probably one of the hottest summers they have experienced since the 1970's.

Industry experts are concerned that if hot weather continues, then the real problems will begin nation wide.

Sheep and beef farmers have had to send thousands of their animals off to the processing works earlier than usual due to lack of feed. But 3-4 week delays at works haven't helped the problem.

Meanwhile dairy farmers are drying off their cows, months earlier than usual, cutting milk production that is resulting in a substantial loss of income.

Fonterra who is responsible for more than a third of the world's dairy trade said season to date milk production was lower than last year and worsening drought conditions could cause dairy farmers up to 500 million by the end of the season in May.

This is Gina Shakespear, NTDTV, Reporoa, New Zealand.

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News & Politics

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