Editorial: The Price of Progress
OPINION: Alistair Carmichael raises some interesting questions about striking a balance between profitability in farming and preserving the character of rural communities.
Farmers throughout New Zealand were invited to support the Hatuma Dicalcic Phosphate Ltd 'Growing Minds' fund by nominating a school and in return Hatuma donates money to that school.
Over the last five years the company has donated over $25,000 to rural schools through the programme.
Porangahau School in Central Hawke's Bay attracted huge support from farmers who chose to nominate their local school.
Porangahau School Principal, Doug Hales says the 40-children school relies heavily on fundraising.
"Every little bit helps in a small school like ours. We really appreciate the support of our local farmers and Hatuma Dicalcic Phosphate."
The extra money has enabled the school to purchase more sports gear.
Porangahau farmers Richard and Piri Galbraith have four children. Their oldest goes to Porangahu School and Piri Galbraith says their other three will also go through the local school.
"It's vital that we support our local school. They are the centre of any rural community. Both Richard and I went to Porangahau School and back then there were six classrooms and over 150 kids. The roll has dwindled since then so we need to ensure our local school stays strong. The Hatuma Growing Minds fund is a good initiative because it means farmers who don't have children at the school can also support their rural school."
