NEWS

Latest News

A farmer leaning against a fence looking out to a farm.

Read all the latest news here from our National Office, our regional Rural Support Trusts along with what is happening in the NZ food & fibre sectors.

Latest news

Rural Support Trust strengthening the Eastern Bay farming community

It seems rather fitting that a key initiative of the Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust is called Turning of the Tide. The event – held in Whakatāne over three evenings – was billed as “A paddock-to-point-break trivia night”.
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Bay of Plenty Rural Connect Newsletter - May 2025

Check out page 2 of the May 2025 issue of the Bay of Plenty Rural Connect Newsletter.
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Helpful articles

26.6.2025

Rural Support Trust strengthening the Eastern Bay farming community

It seems rather fitting that a key initiative of the Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust is called Turning of the Tide. The event – held in Whakatāne over three evenings – was billed as “A paddock-to-point-break trivia night”.
Two people looking out over a farm.
9.6.2025

Rural Support demonstrates strong impact for rural communities

A new social impact report demonstrates the impact of the Rural Support Trust to support and strengthen rural communities.
9.6.2025

Banks Increase Funding to Support Farmers in Need

Banks are stepping up to fully fund the Farm Business Advice Fund for farmers who are under considerable business pressure, as well as continuing their sponsorship of the National Rural Support Trust.
21.8.2024

Drought support increased for North Canterbury Farmers

A lack of rain has left farms short of feed, with pasture and crops failing to grow.
15.7.2024

Bird flu - what do I need to know?

In this episode of the Federated Farmers Podcast, van Andel says New Zealand has never had a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which is highly contagious and deadly in poultry.
10.5.2024

SMART Goals - produced by Kathryn Wright, Registered Counsellor

You may or may not be the sort of person who sets goals. You could be considering what goals would improve your life or what direction to move towards.
9.5.2024

Velvetleaf Weed Management

Velvetleaf is a pest weed that's been found on farms across New Zealand. Why is it such a huge problem on farms?
2.1.2024

Employer Support for Farmers

This article highlights the importance of employer support for farmers, detailing strategies to create a mentally healthy workplace.

Adverse Events in Agriculture

This post discusses the impact of adverse events on farmers and the importance of preparation and support systems.

Financial Pressure on Farmers

This post explores the financial pressures faced by farmers and the impact on their mental health, offering strategies for resilience.

Supporting Farmers' Mental Health

This article discusses the importance of mental health support for farmers, highlighting the unique challenges they face and ways to provide assistance.

Call us. We're here to help.

Our team of over 300 are available to assist you. We’re rural people ourselves, and operate locally in 14 regions across New Zealand, so we’re never too far to help.

Contact one of our team today.

Call our freephone number to be directed to your local Rural Support Trust. All calls are completely confidential.

0800 787 254
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Call your local trust
0800 787 254
8am - 6pm