Economic reforms target costs, red tape, emissions.
The New Zealand Government has marked one year of action to support rural communities and farmers, a key sector driving the country's economy. Led by Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and his team, efforts aim to reduce burdens, provide certainty, and add value to primary exports.
In the past year, significant reforms have been implemented to benefit rural New Zealand. These include practical rules for on-farm water storage, halved ETS charges for forest owners, and repealed legislation affecting log traders. Certainty around emissions has also been a focus, with the disbanding of He Waka Eke Noa, an independent review of methane targets, and the removal of agriculture from the ETS.
To improve environmental outcomes and support rural communities, investment in catchment groups and Pastoral Sector Groups has increased. The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme cap has been lifted to bring in more workers, and significant funding has been provided for animal facial eczema research.
The Government is also promoting trade opportunities and innovation, with the reform of gene technology rules, increased investment in AgriZeroNZ, and a world-leading programme to improve vineyard productivity. Free trade agreements have secured 51% tariff-free entry to the UAE and GCC, eliminating $733 million in non-tariff barriers.
Looking ahead, the Government plans to fix freshwater rules and the RMA, limiting council notifications and introducing a new National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management by the end of next year. This will provide farmers with more certainty and reduce red tape.