The Government has invested in the well-being of rural communities through a new fund that backs practical, on-the-ground programmes designed to build resilience and support the 360,000 people who power the primary sector.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay said Budget 2025 provides NZD two million over four years for a new contestable Rural Wellbeing Fund to help farmers get back on their feet.
“When rural communities thrive, all of New Zealand benefits. The food and fibre sector is the engine of our economy, and that means backing both production and the hardworking people who drive it,” said McClay.
Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson said the fund builds on the Government’s Budget 2025 investment of an extra NZD one million over four years to boost the work of Rural Support Trusts and other providers that support farmers and growers.
“This is about giving rural people the tools and connections they need to stay supported.”
Initiatives that bring people together through events, advice, or peer networks are key to building long-term resilience across the sector.
The fund will be administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries, and successful applicants will be selected by a governance group that includes industry representatives.
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