Drought may be worse than 2008

Waikato farmers are worried this year's drought in the North Island could be worse than the one experienced in 2008.

Waikato is one of the areas officially declared to be in a state of drought yesterday..

Federated Farmers Waikato President James Houghton says this year isn't looking good for North Island farmers.

"This year the only place stock has been moved to is the South Island," he says.

James Houghton says unless rain comes soon the cost of the drought could exceed the seven billion dollar mark from the 2008 drought.

Fruit growers are also doing what they can to support pastoral farmers hit by drought.

Pipfruit New Zealand chief executive Alan Pollard says fruit growers are less affected by the big dry and are offering help.

He says they'll be looking at opportunities for stock to graze on orchard land, as well as forestry sites.

But he also notes apple growers aren't being hit the same way other farmers are.

"We're seeing some great colour, some good volumes on the trees, and reasonably good sizes. I guess, for us, the dry weather is not quite as critical as it is for pastoral farmers."

Pipfruit New Zealand is estimating the apple industry will produce 17 million cartons of the fruit this season.

Growers in drought affected areas are working hard to mitigate the effects of dry weather on their crops.

Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Peter Silcock says if the dry weather continues, growers will have trouble irrigating their land because of water restrictions.

"If you haven't got water, then people are unlikely to plant those crops, so it may affect the availability of crops later in the year."

Peter Silock says green vegetables will be most affected by drought.

Photo: Supplied