New Zealand’s primary industry exports have reached $64 billion, up 6% in the past year. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says April was our best-ever trade surplus month.
“Even in the middle of a fuel crisis, we had $2 billion more in exports to the world than what we imported,” he says.
With exports projected to reach $70 billion by 2030, Luxon says the sector can go further.
“I actually think we can do a lot better than that… you’re looking out and seeing dairy and proteins in huge demand.”
He modelled American herd numbers and found that even if the US began rebuilding its herd tomorrow, it would not be complete until 2035, after more than 70 years of decline. Kiwifruit, horticulture, and wool are also performing well.
“I think it’s just ambition and aspiration, and just get out there and make it happen.”
The government has completed all 12 points in the plan Federated Farmers presented in 2023, including KiwiSaver for farms as the final item, Luxon says. Farmer confidence has followed.
“It’s the highest it’s been in a long time, and it’s the biggest switch we’ve seen from what was the lowest level to now the highest level we’ve had for ages,” says Luxon.
Luxon attended the Rural Support Trust’s fundraising dinner, where 615 people gathered and demand for tickets outstripped supply.
“The Rural Support Trust just do an amazing job… we’re getting over the stigma of actually reaching out and asking for some help, and now we’ve gotta make sure we get the access right to do so,” he says.
Luxon attends Fieldays every year, saying that this is probably the biggest and brightest yet, with more exhibitors seeking stands than could be accommodated. Farming shows like Country Calendar and Clarkson’s Farm are rating well, he says, and young urban people are increasingly entering agricultural training.
“I don’t think this urban-rural divide is as big as everyone’s talking about because when I’m in the cities, I still talk about agriculture like it’s one of the first things out of my mouth.”
He says the positive story of New Zealand farming deserves wider recognition.
“Keep it going because it’s a positive story, and I want New Zealanders to understand… there are a lot of people who wake up each day, and work incredibly hard to make it work for New Zealand.”
CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch/listen or download the CountryWide CONNECT mobile app, available on Apple iOS and Android.
