A farmer in drought-stricken Northland says the rain that is falling in the region has come too late.
Overnight on Tuesday the area received between 7mm and 75mm of rain, with more forecast this week.
Ian Walker, who farms near Kaitaia, says his property received just 14mm of rain, enough to freshen up the grass and dampen the dust, but not sufficient for any real pasture growth.
He says the concern now is for next season.
Mr Walker says new figures put the cost of the drought to Northland's economy at $500 million, and its effects will be felt for at least the next 12 to 18 months.
About 400 dairy farms in Northland have now stopped milking for the season, which for some is nearly a month early, he says.
