Banks Peninsula farmer Roger Beattie says it's the driest start to an autumn he's seen in 28 years. Photo: RNZ / Sally MurphyParts of the east coast of the country, including Banks Peninsula, are so dry farmers are worried they'll run out of feed before winter. NIWA's drought index shows Banks Peninsula, Hawke's Bay and Marlborough are very dry and the forecast isn't looking much better. Despite some brief rain at the weekend, Banks Peninsula remains extremely dry. "These support services are designed to help farmers put a plan in place and make important decisions early as winter approaches," a MPI spokesperson said.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 12, 2021 21:56 UTC