10 Apr 2017

Floodwaters turn paddocks into lakes

From Morning Report, 6:38 am on 10 April 2017

The severe flooding in the Bay of Plenty is a setback for many dairy farmers, just as things were looking brighter after a couple of tough seasons with low milk payouts.

Floodwaters in the rural areas around Edgecumbe are draining away, but many farms look more like lakes, with dozens of paddocks still completely under water.

Our reporter Sarah Robson has been in the region talking to some of those who have been affected and some of those who are offering support.

There had only needed to be a small amount of milk dumping, Farm Source Fonterra said.

There had only needed to be a small amount of milk dumping, Farm Source Fonterra said. Photo: RNZ / Leon Menzies

flooded farm

flooded farm Photo: Susan Murray RNZ

Floating silage bales at Roy Allen's Galatea farm.

Floating silage bales at Roy Allen's Galatea farm. Photo: Supplied

Roy Allen's farm flooded in Galatea.

Roy Allen's farm flooded in Galatea. Photo: Supplied

Roy Allen's farm under water.

Roy Allen's farm under water. Photo: Supplied