Media Release
7 March 2013
Support for drought declaration in Rangitikei, Manawatu
Business Central supports calls for the Government to extend the drought declaration to Rangitikei and Manawatu, says
Chief Executive Raewyn Bleakley.
“Farmers in these areas are starting to do it hard and it won't be too long before businesses begin to feel the effects
as farmers close their wallets in anticipation of a tough time in the weeks and months ahead.
“When the Primary Industries Minister talks of the drought possibly costing the economy $1 billion he doesn’t mean that
just farmers will be affected – everyone from machinery and merchandise retailers, to contractors and fertiliser
companies, right down to supermarkets, will be affected at some point.
“When farmers cut or delay their spending until things are clearer, everyone is affected, starting with businesses in
provincial towns.
“The government assistance for farmers and the support they can access from the banks when an area is designated a
drought area can make a massive difference, and Business Central urges the Government to look closely at this for
Rangitikei and Manawatu,” Ms Bleakley concluded.
ENDS