Summarised by Centrist
Farmer confidence has hit an all-time low, according to the latest bi-annual Federated Farmers survey, with over two-thirds of the 1400 surveyed farmers viewing current economic conditions as unfavourable.
A combination of factors is creating challenging conditions in the farming sector. Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford told RNZ’s Nine to Noon about the significant dry patches across much of the South Island and some of the lower North Island, coupled with farms still rebuilding after last year’s cyclone and low commodity prices, particularly for lamb.
Langford highlighted that three-quarters of farmers were either breaking even or making a loss, and projections indicate that conditions are likely to worsen. The lack of adequate feed stock due to the dry conditions has compounded the difficulties, with farmers hoping for a good spring to improve feed availability.
These pressures have significantly impacted farmers’ mental health, with Langford and Rural Support Trust national chairperson Neil Bateup noting the grind of higher costs, higher interest rates, and weather-related issues. Access to mental health services in regional New Zealand remains patchy, making it difficult for farmers to get the support they need.
Despite the dire situation, there is an increasing openness among farmers to discuss mental health problems, a shift from the past when such issues were rarely spoken about. Resources and helplines are available to support those struggling during these tough times.
