Waikato farming drought 'worst since 78'

The usual lush green hills of the Waikato are turning brown as farmers head into their eighth dry week.

Waikato Federated Farmers president Stuart Wadey says the earth is like concrete and if rain comes in one dollop it won't soak in. Mr Wadey said a good 75mms is needed over a week to really sink in and rejuvenate pasture.

"It's a huge challenge to farm right now, both for dairying and for sheep and beef farmers in the hills," Mr Wadey said.

He said it is the worst drought he has seen since 1978 and has been accelerated by the hot weather and the winds.

"In the northern areas like Huntly and Patetonga are down to the dirt. There's a real challenge to keep on producing product for the vat," Mr Wadey said.

He said supplementary feed is in short supply and bales of silage have gone up from about $55 late last year to about $140.

He said cash flows will be tight for dairy farmers and even worse for the sheep and beef farmers who are now getting less money for meat and wool.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton will meet farming sector leaders next Tuesday to discuss the effect of continued dry weather.

Mr Anderton said if the dry weather persisted, the situation would become very serious in some areas.

Industry leaders would speak about the situation in their areas, including what current and planned initiatives they have in place, he said.