Rural and Urban Divide a Myth

There is a public perception in New Zealand of a deep and antagonistic chasm between rural and urban New Zealanders, supported by stories in media and politics. However, according to new research from Massey University and Our Land and Water National Science Challenge, this divide is not reflected in reality.

Instead, rural communities, farmers, and city dwellers are united in a shared appreciation of the role that farmers play in producing food, providing jobs, and caring for the environment.

The Diverse Experiences of Farming project surveyed and interviewed over 1300 people, and asked New Zealanders – urban and rural – what they really think about farming.

The results surprised the researchers.