Otago, Southland farmers take extreme measures in record heat

Farmers are moving stock in the dead of the night as they struggle in record heat and dry conditions in Otago and Southland. It's expected a drought - or a "medium-scale adverse event" as it is officially known - may be declared within days, allowing the government to provide financial aid and other support. Rivers in the Otago and Southland area are at record lows and farmers say they are meeting regularly to try and keep spirits up. Central Otago Mayor, Tim Cadogan tells RNZ Otago-Southland reporter Ian Telfer a drought declaration would be helpful.