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Hawke's Bay farmers are facing the worst drought in 125 years, Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton said tonight after visiting the region.
Mr Anderton flew over the farms in a helicopter and later met Federated Farmers' representatives and regional councillors.
He said the drought conditions on the East Coast were "serious and worsening" and the Government was working with local authorities to deal with the situation.
"The farmers I met today were resilient, determined and totally lacking in self-pity, but they are facing some very difficult times," he said.
"The strongest message I can give to the affected farmers is to act now. Sell stock, even capital stock."
Mr Anderton said farmers had to make hard decisions to protect their businesses for the future.
"If you see that your neighbours need help, urge them to get it," he said in a statement.
"Social networks are really important in times like this and farmers and their families need to be looking out for one another."
Mr Anderton said the Government had already told Inland Revenue to relax its tax rules and deadlines had been extended.
Rural assistance payments were available from Work and Income, but people were not asking for help.
"I understand, and admire, the pride in self-sufficiency that is a characteristic of rural people but these are unusual times," he said.
- NZPA
