On 1 October 2026, the Government classified the extreme wet and cold conditions across Southland and the Clutha District in Otago as a medium-scale adverse event.
Southland has had its wettest winter since 1980. The wet and cold weather has been tough on farmers, growers, rural communities and livestock across Southland and parts of Otago. These conditions have made a busy time of year even harder, especially through calving and now lambing.
If you have been affected by the severe weather conditions, you do not need to contact us right now. Please focus on recovering from the damage caused.
If you are a tax agent and your client has been affected, please support them as needed.
Contact us
When you can, please contact us in myIR including the word 'weather' or call us on our disaster line:
0800 473 566
Help for you, your family or your business
We may be able to help:
- you
- your family
- your business
- your client.
Help for you or your family in an adverse or emergency event
Help with your business tax in an adverse or emergency event
Where we offer extra help
We may be able to offer extra help for you or your client affected by this event. This may include help for farmers and growers under the income equalisation scheme.
2026 October - Extreme cold and wet conditions across Southland and the Clutha District