increase font size
FAR chief executive Alison Stewart updated farmers this afternoon.
A farm with five or fewer staff and observing social distancing among workers need not register as an essential business.
This was announced by Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) chief executive Alison Stewart this afternoon.
“We are aware that the wording around registering as an essential service has been confusing, and have sought clarification from MPI around the process and what advice we can give to you,” she said in a message to farmers.
“They have now confirmed that if you are a farmer with five or fewer people (including the owner) working at your farm business, and you are able to achieve social distancing measures between staff in your workplace, including travelling, to and from work, then you do not need to register.
“If you have more than five staff (including yourself) and/or you cannot guarantee 2 metre distancing of staff due to the type of work being carried out, then you must fill out and submit the Safe Practice Registration Form on the MPI website.”
This advice also applies to any contractors or industry personnel visiting or working on your property. Remember, that although your farm is still operational, you must enforce the physical distancing rules.
“We are aware that many of you are receiving emails such as these from several sources, and that it can be annoying,” says Stewart.
“However, as a levy body, we are obliged to keep in contact and will continue to do so. We will endeavour to keep emails as short as possible and only send them out when information changes.”
For more information, go to the MPI website to register or contact MPI on 0800 00 83 33.
Or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further details on registering or the registration process.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
OPINION: A simpler, clearer, more effective Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.
The country's second largest milk processor is warning against 'complacency' during a review of competition regulations in the dairy sector.
New Zealand apple and pear industry stakeholders are out in force for the annual conference in Queenstown.
Blueberry growers are warning that fresh imports could pose a huge biosecurity risk for NZ’s horticulture sector.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.
For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.
An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.
With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.
