29 Sep 2026
3 weeks ago
280 views
The speech highlights the significant progress made in New Zealand's red meat sector through increased farmer confidence, market access, and supportive policies, emphasizing collaboration between government and industry. It outlines plans to grow production by allowing greater land use flexibility, improving productivity, and investing in innovation while maintaining high environmental standards. The government aims to double export value by 2034 by opening new markets, particularly in India, despite challenges like rising costs and international trade disputes, with a focus on supporting rural communities and sustainable growth.
12 Jun 2026
4 months ago
927 views
The Government is supporting NZ Young Farmers by providing $60,000 in one-off grants to 60 clubs and $585,000 through the Rural Wellbeing Fund to enhance physical, mental, and financial wellbeing initiatives. NZ Young Farmers, a non-profit with a century-long history, helps young rural people develop leadership skills, network, and support their communities. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay emphasized the importance of these efforts in sustaining rural communities and the primary industries vital to the economy.
10 Jun 2026
4 months ago
911 views
The Government is investing $98,000 in the Rural Wellbeing Champions Programme, embedded within the New Zealand Young Farmer of the Year Contest, to develop young rural leaders who can support mental health and wellbeing in their communities. This initiative, delivered in partnership with New Zealand Young Farmers and Farmstrong, aims to equip up to 150 participants with skills to navigate rural pressures and lead wellbeing conversations. The investment complements a broader mental health plan, enhancing support services and fostering resilient rural communities for the future.
19 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1186 views
The New Zealand Government is supporting rural communities by funding 18 wellbeing initiatives through the Rural Wellbeing Fund, with $4 million allocated over four years by the Ministry for Primary Industries and Health New Zealand. The fund aims to enhance mental health and wellbeing support for farmers and rural residents, focusing on impactful grassroots programs to address service gaps. Key recipients include organizations like Whatever With Wiggy Charitable Trust and the Whanau Ora Community Clinic, receiving significant funding to help rural people thrive.
24 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1166 views
The Government has renewed a $2.7 million investment in the Farmstrong rural wellbeing programme, part of a five-year $6.8 million agreement between ACC and Farmstrong aimed at reducing injuries in agriculture and horticulture. Since its 2016 launch, Farmstrong has delivered significant returns, saving over 9,800 injury claims and $52 million in costs by addressing the link between wellbeing and injury risk. The programme, supported by ACC, FMG, and the Mental Health Foundation, provides practical resources to support farmers' mental health and safety, reinforcing the sector's importance to New Zealand's economy.
02 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2219 views
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey will be coming to Ōamaru today as part of the rural health roadshow across the country. “The rural health roadshow is an opportunity for me to hear direct feedback from the public and those who are working in rural health about what’s working well and where the barriers may be. The roadshow is also a great opportunity to hear how well the Rural Health Strategy is being implemented,” Mr Doocey says.
01 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2371 views
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Patterson will be coming to Wānaka today as part of the rural health roadshow happening across the country. “The rural health roadshow is an opportunity for me to hear direct feedback from the public and those who are working in rural health. The roadshow is also a great opportunity to hear how well the Rural Health Strategy is being implemented,” Mr Doocey says.