Farmers: you’re a hardy bunch — up before dawn, long days, and working outdoors in all conditions. But that doesn’t mean staying on top of everything is easy, especially when financial pressures, compliance changes, and safety risks pile on at the busiest time of year.
In this rural-focused issue, we celebrate the latest Ballance Farm Environment Award winners, share practical tips to manage farm debt, spotlight farming innovations shaping agriculture in New Zealand, and offer straightforward advice to keep you and your team safe and well.
No matter the season, we’re here to help you stay strong, supported, and financially prepared.
Innovation in farming: What it looks like and how to fund it
Innovation is about working smarter, not harder — adapting to change, improving efficiency, and building long-term resilience. And it looks different on every farm. Sometimes it’s a tweak, other times it’s an overhaul. But it’s always about balancing your budget with your values, short-term costs with long-term gains, and finding what works for you.
No matter the size or type of your operation, progress is possible — one step at a time.
INVESTING IN INNOVATION?
Whether you’re trialling a new idea or planning a major shift, here are four practical ways to keep innovation financially sustainable:
- Work with what you’ve got. Start by reviewing your existing systems, as small, low-cost changes can often lead to big improvements.
- Budget for innovation. Map out upfront costs, factor in potential savings, and forecast the return so you can make confident decisions.
- Tap into funding. Explore grants, government programmes, or finance options that support your goals and fit your cash flow.
- Track the impact. Use the numbers to understand what’s working, refine your approach, and guide future investment.
Ready to take the next step? We can help you explore the right tools and strategies to support your goals — and your bottom line. Get in touch and let’s talk about what’s possible.
Farm finance: What to know before (and after) you borrow
While interest rates may be easing elsewhere, rural lending in New Zealand is a different story. Because of regulatory requirements, agricultural loans often come with tighter conditions and higher interest rates — some reports suggest up to 1.7% more.
Lenders also place more emphasis on climate resilience, compliance, and seasonal volatility, while larger farms face increased scrutiny around governance and long-term planning.
BEFORE YOU APPLY…
Make sure you’re putting your best foot forward before approaching your bank with:
- Up-to-date annual accounts
- Clear cash flow forecasts
- Current stock and asset schedules
- A business plan that outlines risks and opportunities (especially for larger investments).
SECURED THE LOAN?
Time to make sure your debt is working for you, not against you. Here’s how:
- Stay on top of your financials. Up-to-date records make it easier to spot pressure points and plan.
- Review your debt structure. Are you on the right mix of fixed and floating rates? Could refinancing free up cash or ease pressure?
- Don’t wait for problems to arise. Talk to your bank early if you foresee a cash flow concern.
Need help reviewing your strategy or planning your next step? We’re just a call away.
Farming for the future: How to stay resilient in a changeable world
From extreme weather to shifting global demand, farmers are facing more uncertainty than ever. The future of farming depends on your ability to adapt, both in the paddock and your business.
Here are four challenges shaping the sector right now — and what you can do to stay ahead.
1. Climate resilience is real
Feeling the impact of droughts, floods, or shifting seasons? It might be time to trial drought-tolerant pastures, upgrade irrigation, or explore regenerative farming practices.
2. Sustainability is good business
It’s more than compliance! Tools like emissions calculators, low-emission fertilisers, and riparian planting can reduce your footprint and support long-term profitability.
3. Market uncertainty is on the rise
In a world where supply chain pressures and shifting trade conditions make demand harder to predict, flexibility, through diversification, planning, and forecasting, is key to staying on solid ground.
4. Smart tech helps you stay nimble
From FarmIQ’s performance tracking to drone mapping to precision sensors, digital tools can help you make good decisions, cut waste, and save time.
A GLIMPSE INTO FARMING’S FUTURE
Lincoln University’s Circular Farm — multi-crop, renewably powered, and low-emissions — is showing us what’s possible!
NEED HELP PLANNING FOR CHANGE?
Get in touch — we are here to help you make sense of the uncertainty.
How to keep your people safe when the pressure’s on
ARE YOUR FARM VEHICLES UP TO THE JOB?
In July 2024 alone, four farmers were killed in quad bike accidents, with poor conditions, steep slopes, and fatigue playing a key role in these tragedies.
Farm vehicles and machinery are part of everyday life, but they carry serious risks.
To keep your people safe:
· Choose the right vehicle for the terrain
· Install crush or rollover protection
· Wear helmets and seatbelts — every ride, no exceptions
· Encourage your team to take breaks, especially when they’re tired or when the weather turns.
LEPTOSPIROSIS: KNOW THE RISK
Did you know leptospirosis is New Zealand’s most common work-related infectious disease? It spreads through contact with animal fluids or contaminated water and soil, particularly in flood-prone or wet areas.
Keep yourself and your farmers healthy by:
· Using gloves and protective clothing
· Covering cuts and cleaning wounds
· Practising good hygiene and handwashing
· Watching for symptoms: fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain
· Report cases — leptospirosis is notifiable to WorkSafe.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE COLD
Not even the toughest farmer is immune to a New Zealand winter. Cold, wet, and windy weather can cause lasting injury and illness, so protect your team by:
· Providing warm, waterproof gear and shelter
· Allowing warm-up breaks and rotating tasks
· Keeping clothing dry between shifts
· Monitoring for signs of cold-related stress or illness.
DON’T RUSH THE LAST JOB OF THE DAY
At the end of a long day, it’s tempting to rush through that final task, but fatigue on the farm is not the same as nodding off at your desk. When you're handling machinery or working with livestock, the risks are real and ignoring your exhaustion can lead to serious harm.
Encourage your team to slow down and:
· Assess the risk before tackling end-of-day tasks
· Prioritise safety over speed
· Speak up if they have any concerns about fatigue or safety.
LOOK AFTER YOUR PEOPLE
Your workers are your most valuable asset. Clear communication, the right equipment, and knowing when to slow down can make all the difference.
If you’d like support integrating health and safety into your planning or budgeting, give us a call.
DID THE DRY SUMMER HIT HARD? SUPPORT MAY BE AVAILABLE.
Have you seen a drop in income after months of hot, dry weather?
On 7 March 2025, the Government officially classified the prolonged dry conditions as a medium-scale adverse event for:
Northland, Waikato, King Country, Horizons (Manawatū-Whanganui) and Marlborough-Tasman.
If you’re in one of these regions and your business has been affected, get in touch — we’ll help you look into your options for financial support.
Tax Calendar - June 2025
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DATE
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CATEGORY
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DESCRIPTION
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3 June
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FBT
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Payment and return due for FBT quarterly filers (for 31 March 2025 quarter) and annual FBT return filers.
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5 June
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PAYE
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Large employers' returns for the second half of May. File employment information within two working days after payday.
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23 June
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RWT
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Payment and return for May.
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23 June
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NRWT / Approved Issuer Levy
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Payment and return due for May.
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23 June
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PAYE
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Small employers return for May and large employers returns for the first half
of June. File employment information within two working days after payday.
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30 June
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Provisional Tax
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Payment for third instalment of 2025 provisional tax due.
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30 June
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GST
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Return and payment due.
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