The number of properties infected with cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis has risen, with 23 farms now infected.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) confirmed that two more properties, one in Southland and one in Waitaki were now infected.
The disease was first detected on a South Canterbury farm in July 2017.
It has since spread having been detected in properties in Southland, Otago, Canterbury and the Hawkes Bay.
Currently, MPI has 38 properties in lockdown under restricted place notices - meaning there can be no stock movement off the property.
The disease has put farmers in fear nationwide as MPI attempt's to control the spread of the disease.
Mycolpasma bovis can cause mastitis, pneumonia, arthritis and late-term abortions in cattle.
Newshub.
