ACC-backed study seeks mental health solutions for farmers, major agri-business hub in the works for Mid-Canterbury, and National Lamb Day prepares for big celebration.

Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather!

 

ACC-backed study seeks mental health solutions for farmers

A new research project, backed by the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), aims to understand what changes farmers want in mental health care and what drives them to stay in an industry known for its pressures.

Dairy farmers are facing a mental health crisis, with high rates of burnout, stress, and substance use. Yet many hesitate to seek support, highlighting a growing disconnect between rural communities and mental health services. 

University of Otago psychology master's student Reghan Laurie, who grew up on a Southland dairy farm, has been awarded an ACC postgraduate scholarship to investigate farmer wellbeing. He says personal experience motivated his work, recalling colleagues lost to suicide and the heavy workload his family managed while also caring for his younger sister with non-verbal autism.

Through interviews with 21 dairy farmers, Laurie has uncovered critical insights into the realities of rural mental health. He notes that burnout, stress, and substance use are widespread, with over 70% of participants meeting burnout criteria following Covid-19. 

Laurie’s research highlights the need for mental health approaches tailored to rural communities. He aims to bridge the gap between traditional therapy models and the realities of farming culture, ensuring that support systems align with the demands of the industry.

ACC strategy, engagement, and prevention deputy chief executive Andy Milne says the research aligns with ACC’s broader goal of addressing complex challenges in injury prevention and recovery. 

Findings from Laurie's study will help shape future operational and investment decisions, ensuring that those at higher risk—like dairy farmers—receive the support they need.

 

Innovation and technology shine at Vegetable Big Day Out

More than 200 industry leaders gathered in Pukekohe for the inaugural Vegetables Big Day Out event, marking a significant step forward for New Zealand's vegetable sector. The two-day showcase, hosted by the new Te Ahikawariki Vegetable Industry Centre of Excellence, highlighted cutting-edge farming technology and sustainable growing practices.

Biosecurity and Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard opened the event alongside Ngāti Tamaoho Trust representatives, witnessing demonstrations of advanced farming technology including drone sprayers, robotic tractors, and electric weeders. The event showcased practical applications of integrated pest management, demonstrating how native plants can house beneficial insects to protect crops naturally.

Industry expertise was shared through classroom sessions, including a cultural indicator for freshwater quality developed by Ngāti Tamaoho's Environmental Unit Manager Edith Tuhimata. 

Minister Hoggard addressed industry concerns about upcoming resource management legislation changes, indicating further government announcements expected by mid-year and emphasizing the importance of industry feedback on future proposals.

 

Major agri-business hub in the works for Mid-Canterbury

A major new food and fibre business park is in the works for Mid Canterbury, with Ashburton-based agribusiness Carrfields partnering with environmentalist, actor, and social entrepreneur Suzy Amis Cameron.

Carrfields managing director Craig Carr confirmed that the company is in the process of acquiring land in the Ashburton Business Estate for the development, which will be a joint venture between Carrfields Property Group and Inside Out LLC—a US-based entity founded by Amis Cameron.

The Overseas Investment Office (OIO) has approved the land purchase, with an option to purchase an additional 8.2 hectares from the Ashburton District Council. The total land value is $8.5 million.

While details of the proposed business park remain under wraps, the OIO decision outlines several key benefits, including job creation, increased capital investment, introduction of new technology, and growth in exports. As part of the venture, the joint entity will also acquire a 50% stake in Rubisco Limited—formerly New Zealand Natural Fibres—a sustainable material manufacturer using hemp and wool.

 

New bird flu strain detected in US dairy cattle

A new strain of the H5N1 bird flu virus has been detected in US dairy cattle for the first time, raising concerns about its spread. The US Department of Agriculture confirmed that genome sequencing of milk from Nevada identified the strain. Until now, all 957 reported infections in dairy herds had been caused by a different strain.

The virus has already reduced milk production and contributed to higher egg prices by devastating poultry flocks. Nearly 70 people in the US have also been infected since April.

Nevada officials believe wild birds transmitted the virus to cattle. Two counties are now under quarantine, and experts warn that previously infected herds may still be at risk.

With dairy herds under pressure, the USDA is facing growing calls to contain the outbreak before it spreads further.

 

National Lamb Day prepares for big celebration.

With National Lamb Day approaching next Saturday, New Zealand’s sheep industry is gearing up to showcase its world-class lamb, taking inspiration from across the Tasman.

Each year, Australia’s high-profile lamb advertisements draw attention, and this year, New Zealand’s sheep sector has been strategizing on how to top its rivals. Industry advocate Julia Jones recently gathered key industry figures—along with Southland dairy farmer and Ag Proud chair Jon Pemberton—to plot their own campaign, aiming to highlight what makes New Zealand lamb unique.

Jones says while Australia produces great marketing, New Zealand produces great lamb, and the focus should be on letting the product speak for itself. The 2025 National Lamb Day campaign is designed to celebrate Kiwi farmers and encourage the public to take part by firing up the barbecue and sharing their appreciation for New Zealand lamb.

A major event will kick off celebrations next Tuesday with a special barbecue at Parliament, attended by MPs from across the political spectrum as well as industry leaders. Pemberton says momentum is building, with the campaign working to inspire Kiwis nationwide to “raise a chop” to those who bring premium lamb to their plates.

New Zealanders are encouraged to get involved by registering their own barbecues for National Lamb Day. More details can be found at nationallambday.co.nz, and you can watch this years video by following the link in this episode's description.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qkDM5vAhMA 

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