October 2023
Diverse Experiences of Farming surveyed and interviewed over 1,300 New Zealanders, and asked them – urban and rural – what they really think about farming. The results might surprise you.
Despite what some media and politicians claim, there is no deep and antagonistic chasm between urban and rural New Zealanders, town and country dwellers, including farmers.
We value our farmers for the food they grow, and recognise their role in creating jobs and managing the environment.
While most New Zealanders feel that farming provides strong benefits to the country, recognising the sector’s benefits does not equate to greater trust in farming.
Honest, clear communication from farming sectors, which listens to the public’s point of view, drives trust.
Prepared for Our Land and Water National Science Challenge by Massey University
Source: Building a Place-based Social Licence to Operate (October 2023). Report prepared for Our Land and Water National Science Challenge by Massey University. https://ourlandandwater.nz/output/building-social-licence