Simmonds Welcomes Aid for Struggling Farmers

*Media Release*

*Invercargill MP*

*Penny Simmonds*

*1 October 2026*

*Simmonds welcomes Govt Support for Rural Southland*

Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds says she's relieved that support is coming South for local farmers affected by the on-going wet weather.

"The Government this afternoon announced that the extreme wet and cold conditions across Southland and the Clutha District have been classified as a 'medium-scale adverse event.'

"This will see up to $50,000 going to the Southland and Otago Rural Support Trusts to provide more help on the ground, including recovery and wellbeing events.

"It will also unlock tax relief, including more flexible timing of tax payments, and it will enable the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to consider Rural Assistance Payments for farmers who can't meet essential living costs.

"This is positive news for rural communities in this province who're doing it hard because of the relentless adverse weather.

"I encourage anyone feeling under pressure to seek support. Many farmers, staff and families have told me that they are struggling at this time.

"It's not surprising considering the wet conditions have plagued Invercargill and Southland for two months now – and right in the middle of calving and lambing.

"I hope this extra Government help reassures people that they are not alone and that support is available.

"The Southland Rural Support Trust, MPI, Federated Farmers, DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb and Thriving Southland have also swung into action – focussing on people, animals, feed and property.

"Fonterra has also been out delivering care packs to their suppliers and Rabobank has done the same with a hot meal.

"That's one thing about Southlanders – when the going gets tough we all pull together.

"We're a resilient bunch and we've been through tough times before. We know that things can turn around.

"The bit of sunshine in the past couple of days has been a real boost for people. Hopefully there's more on the way and that maybe we have turned the corner."