On Your Behalf: Health and Safety Checklist for Vineyards and Wineries
Keeping healthy and safe during vintage 2026
Health and safety reforms on farm are coming, according to consultants OnFarmSafety New Zealand.
The company says from talking to farmers in recent months, it seems many remain confused.
“The problem is it all seems too hard and the general perception is that most don’t know where to start; it will involve a lot of paperwork and be very time-taxing,” it claims.
“You will have to set up some good sound health and safety systems, but it doesn’t need to feel like you’re planning the next Mount Everest expedition.
“Your health and safety system needs to work for you, your style of doing business and in a way that gives you peace of mind that you have taken ‘all practicable steps’ to ensure the safety of anyone on your property, including staff, contractors and visitors.”
OnFarmSafety systems and processes are designed to make sure farmers are able to gain good working knowledge on the subject of health and safety, while still having the time to run their business.
It starts the process with a full assessment audit of how you currently operate and what you do either informally or in writing. This enables the company to tailor a system specifically for each client to give them the confidence that if there is a serious situation they have taken all the necessary measures required.
Every workplace needs a health and safety plan. “If you are a one-man-band, you need to take all necessary precautions to ensure those coming onto your farm are safe and are fully aware of all the relevant hazards they could encounter.”
Tel 0508 ONFARM
Penske Australia & New Zealand has appointed Stephen Kelly as the general manager of its Penske NZ operations, effective immediately In this role he will oversee all NZ branch operations, including energy solutions, mining, commercial vehicles, defence, marine, and rail, while continuing to be based at Penske’s Christchurch branch.
According to the latest Federated Farmers-Rabobank Farm Remuneration Report, released today, farm worker pay growth has levelled off after a post-Covid period of rapid growth.
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The Conservative Party warns that the upcoming free trade agreement between New Zealand and India may prioritise increased labour mobility while offering limited reassurance for New Zealand workers.
Southland District Council says it is actively managing the impacts of the current fuel supply challenges to ensure essential services across the district continue to operate safely and reliably.
A large crowd turned out for the last of the field days of the three finalists in this years Ahuwhenua Trophy to determine the top Maori horticulture entity in Aotearoa New Zealand

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