The number of migrating farmers and farm workers approved to obtain work in New Zealand increased by 40 per cent over the past two years. That's according to data obtained by New Zealand Confidential (NZC), the UK-based relocation support service for farmers and rural businesses.
From 2003/4 to 2005/6, the biggest increase was beef and sheep farmers, which more than doubled from 30 a year to 65. The mixed crop/livestock category rose by 52 per cent over the two years, from 54 a year to 82, while dairy farmers and workers fell by 19 per cent from 52 to 42 a year.
For UK farmers considering relocation, NZC director Phil Thomason says there are a number of attractions. "In New Zealand society, farmers are respected by politicians and the public," he says. "For many, the unsubsidised free market with less political interference is a welcome change. And converting Sterling to NZ-dollars creates healthy purchasing power, though land prices have risen substantially in the past five years and it would be wrong to suggest there are lots of cheap farms available."
In addition to the farming side of re-location, family settlement is also a critical issue, adds Mr Thomason. He says a strong family situation can often help pull through farming difficulties, but the opposite is rarely the case. For UK farmers considering such a move, New Zealand Confidential has representation in both countries to support the entire process, from initial investigations right through to post-move settling in.
