ANZ encourages farmers and business owners in Nelson, Tasman districts to seek support if they need it

With more extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank New Zealand (ANZ NZ) is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.

Lorraine Mapu, ANZ Managing Director of Business and Agri, said: “Renewed heavy rain warnings are another blow for local businesses, orchardists and farmers already grappling with widespread damage, flooding and slips.

“Many have had homes, land, and businesses flooded, farms damaged and crops destroyed.

“For our famers the welfare of their animals is a priority, some will be facing stock losses, feed shortages, damage to fencing and disruption.” Ms Mapu said.

“We’ve got staff out in the community and on the road, talking to business owners and visiting farmers in some of the worse affected areas, to get a better idea of the extent of the damage.

“We want to reassure our customers that the bank is here to work with them in the days and months ahead.”

ANZ is recommending farmers and business owners talk with their key industry specialists and professional advisors to work out the best way forward.

ANZ is making targeted assistance available for business and farming customers, subject to approval.

This includes temporary overdraft facilities and the ability to defer loan repayments or moving to interest only, to help ease some financial pressure.

Business and Agri customers should speak to their Relationship Manager or phone our Business Service centre on 0800 269 249 to discuss the impact on their business and their funding requirements.

ANZ said any home loan customers feeling financial pressure should talk to the bank sooner rather than later to ensure they are getting the support they need.

To contact ANZ phone 0800 269 296.