Dry weather classification expands to North Island
The dry weather in some parts of the North Island has received medium-scale adverse event classification from the Government.
Rural Women New Zealand is concerned for the mental well being of farmers as they struggle with the current drought.
"However, the overriding concern for Rural Women™ is women, who are often at the sharp end when mental illness strikes," says president Wendy McGowan.
"While they are seen as carers and nurturers they are not immune to stress and depression, but are most likely to put their own mental wellbeing on hold and 'keep calm and carry on'."
It is well recognised that family violence spikes after an adverse event. Increased reports of violence can continue for up to two years following the event. Rural women are especially vulnerable, given their distance from neighbours, health care, childcare, family, friends and services. The insidiousness of a drought when there is no end in sight further compounds the problem.
The uniqueness of the farm/home environment and joint nature of agribusiness can complicate matters further if a woman wishes to leave an abusive relationship. The economic and emotional ties make it very difficult to walk away from those responsibilities.
"Women play a major role in achieving resilience in rural communities. A quiet word may be all that it takes to initiate help and support, and prevent a tragedy," says McGowan.
"Rural Women™ is well placed and committed to supporting women and families in rural communities."
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.