Posted in Member update; Posted 37 hours ago Less than a minute to read

Update: October 2025 weather events

Published on 27 October 2025.

We are thinking of everyone who has been impacted by the severe weather this past week, particularly those in Southland, Otago, and Canterbury.

NZVA has been working with the MPI Animal Welfare Emergency Management (AWEM) sub-function group over the weekend, and have been in touch with clinics in the affected areas.

If you have any information about the situation in your area, please email Leanne Fecser (Leanne.Fecser@vets.org.nz) so we can keep the sub-function group informed. This will help the group get supplies and support to the communities that need it most.

Latest information

  • States of local emergency remain in place for the Southland Region, Clutha District, and Kaikōura District.
  • The army is flying in generators and checking on people in rural communities. It is likely going to take another five days for power to be fully restored.
  • Farmers are sharing generators to help with milking. There is concern about a potential increase in somatic cell counts and mastitis, with reports of mastitis already coming through in Clutha.
  • AI technology is down due to loss of power and internet, so alternative identification methods are required.
  • Fatigue is a big concern for many farmers, and support is being set up to provide access to hot showers, hot food, and laundry services.

Animal welfare concerns

  • For animal welfare concerns, please contact MPI on 04 894 0132 or AWEM@mpi.govt.nz.
  • Calcium magnesium and mastitis products are available from SVS. You can order by emailing orders@svs.co.nz or calling 0800 808 387.
  • Farmers can order tail paint by emailing sales@donaghys.co.nz or phoning 0800 942 006. Alternatively, they can contact their local Donaghy rep using the details below:
    • Southland: Eva Botting, 027 432 5754, ebo@donaghys.co.nz
    • Southland: Caleb Smith, 027 224 2676, cas@donaghys.co.nz
    • Taieri, South and West Otago, Northern Southland: Kevin Muir, 027 580 7817, kmu@donaghys.co.nz

Stay up to date

Where to find support

It's normal to feel anxious or worried during extreme weather events. Here are some places you can find support:

  • Vitae: Veterinarians can access free counselling through Vitae. Call 0508 664 981 or complete their online form to make an appointment.
  • Rural Support Trust: Phone 0800 787 254
  • 1737: Anyone can call or text 1737 any time
  • NZVA mental health resources: Resources for supporting your mental health through adverse weather events, including a list of local and national mental health providers.
 

If there is anything we can do to support you, please contact us on 04 471 0484 or email nzva@vets.org.nz. We are monitoring the situation closely and are here to help in any way we can.

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