The ongoing strains of the drought conditions are starting to bite deeper across the Waikato and South Auckland.

Waikato Federated Farmers president James Houghton says this would be the fourth drought in six years for the region, and the situation is getting emotionally taxing for some farmers.

Rainfall at Ruakura for the three months to March was the second lowest on record, with significant moisture deficits around the Waikato.

The Rural Support Trust chairman, Neil Bateup, says farmers are generally coping OK at the moment, but says if the lack of rainfall continues, problems will arise.

James Houghton is reminding farmers that support networks are available.