Applications opened on December 1 and close on February 28.
The money was designated for onfarm infrastructure repairs in Hurunui, Kaikoura and Marlborough Districts.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy said money could be used to re-establish uninsurable assets such as water infrastructure and tracks, culverts and farm bridges.
Any grants would be a contribution towards repairs covering a maximum of 50% of costs.
A $5000 excess would apply with a cap at $50,000 per applicant.
There would be one assessment panel across the three districts, including the mayor of each district and representatives from Federated Farmers, rural support trusts, MPI and independent farm consultants.
Guy said applicants were required to provide information including evidence of impacts and assessments of costs, ideally with photographs.
Farmers who had already paid for work should keep a full record of receipts and invoices.
“In these first few weeks the priority for most farmers is assessing the damage and working out what needs to be done, however, people shouldn’t wait for the earthquake relief fund to make essential repairs and can apply for the fund at any stage of repair,” Guy said.
Application forms and criteria can be found on the Marlborough District Council website here.
