Government announces multimillion dollar package, more fire restrictions announced across the country, and holiday season puts rural security under the spotlight.

Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather!

Government announces multimillion dollar package

A $20 million government funding boost will support the ongoing fight against high pathogenic avian influenza at an Otago egg farm, strengthening New Zealand's biosecurity response capabilities.

The emergency funding package, approved by Cabinet, will cover extensive scientific testing, surveillance operations, and compensation for affected farmers following the detection of H7N6 strain at Mainland Poultry's Hillgrove operation in early December.

Intensive monitoring has confirmed the outbreak remains contained to the single commercial free-range egg farm, where about 200,000 chickens were humanely culled after the disease was detected on December 1. The property remains under strict biosecurity controls while thorough cleaning and decontamination work continues.

More than 200 Ministry for Primary Industries staff have been involved in the response, processing approximately 1,400 samples at the specialized PC3 laboratory facility in Wallaceville, Wellington. Enhanced surveillance will continue into the New Year to ensure the disease hasn't spread beyond the initial outbreak.

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says while the situation appears well-contained, the funding ensures resources are available should any new cases emerge. The Ministry will work directly with Mainland Poultry on compensation for losses incurred during the response.

The poultry industry has been praised for its swift cooperation with authorities, maintaining robust biosecurity measures across operations nationwide to prevent any potential spread of the disease.

Industry continues to call for faster farm product approvals

The agricultural sector is pushing for immediate action to clear a significant backlog of rural products awaiting regulatory approval, with some innovations facing delays of up to four years before reaching New Zealand farmers.

Animal and Plant Health New Zealand says the current approval system for new agricultural products, including feeds, fertilizers, medicines and pesticides, is creating major barriers for farmers trying to access innovative tools. The situation has become particularly pressing with more than 100 applications currently stuck in the pre-application queue.

The Ministry for Regulation's review of approval pathways has highlighted significant challenges in the current dual-approval system under agricultural compounds and hazardous substances legislation. The Environmental Protection Authority estimates it could take between two to four years to clear the existing backlog, even if no new applications were accepted.

Industry leaders point to products like Sivanto Prime insecticide, which despite a decade of successful use in Australia and approval across OECD countries, has been waiting four years for New Zealand approval. The delays are affecting farmers' ability to tackle emerging challenges including climate targets, biosecurity threats, and export growth goals.

The sector is proposing several solutions including streamlined processes for minor changes to established products, self-assessment options, and potential harmonization with international standards where products have already received approval from two recognized regulators.

AgriZero has joined industry calls for reform, highlighting how current registration requirements and high trial costs are deterring companies from bringing new emission-reduction tools to New Zealand's relatively small market. A draft report on potential reforms is expected this month, with Cabinet consideration scheduled for February.

More fire restrictions announced across the country

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has implemented comprehensive fire restrictions across multiple regions in both the North and South Island.

In the Wairarapa, a prohibited fire season has been declared until further notice. Fire and Emergency District Community Risk Manager Phil Soal warned that recent rainfall has done little to mitigate fire risks. The entire region faces a complete ban on outdoor fires, with authorities cautioning residents to avoid heat-generating activities like mowing, welding, or using vehicles in dry grasslands.

In Hawke’s Bay District Manager Glen Varcoe says Ahuriri-Heretaunga, Wairoa Coast, Tukituki East and West, the southern Hawke’s Bay coast, and Pōrangahau are areas where setting off fireworks will not be allowed until March next year. All fire permits in these areas except Porongahau have been suspended and open air fires are also banned .

Canterbury's fire restrictions will run from midday today to 8am on January 6th next year, with a specific ban on fireworks and sky lanterns across the Port Hills, Banks Peninsula, and Kaitorete Spit. Canterbury District Commander Dave Stackhouse emphasized the region's history of devastating fires, particularly referencing the significant Port Hills fire earlier this year.

Stackhouse says there are ongoing concerns about high temperatures and westerly winds continuing to dry vegetation, creating ideal conditions for rapid grass fires. The restrictions aim to prevent potentially catastrophic wildfire scenarios, with authorities stressing that a single spark could trigger a major incident.

Meanwhile fireworks are banned in the Queenstown Lakes area, and restricted open-air fires in the Strath Taieri, Coastal Waitaki and Lakes areas until further notice.

Residents and visitors are urged to check current fire restrictions at www.checkitsalright.nz before undertaking any fire-related activities.

Holiday season puts rural security under the spotlight

Police are warning farmers to strengthen security measures before leaving properties vacant over the Christmas period, as rural areas face increased risk of theft during the summer holiday season.

Rural communities can triple in population over summer, creating opportunities for theft and burglary. This threat is highlighted by FMG insurance data showing January consistently records the highest number of rural theft claims, with last season's claims reaching $1.2 million.

Rural Crime Manager Dave Martin says criminals often scope out properties before striking, conducting drive-by surveillance or making fake inquiries about occupants' holiday plans. Police are encouraging immediate reporting of suspicious activity, particularly unfamiliar vehicles or unusual property inquiries.

Waikato Federated Farmers president Keith Holmes reports tools, motorbikes, quad bikes and freezer contents are common theft targets. More isolated properties face additional risks, with some farmers discovering stock missing from rarely checked paddocks. The reduction in on-farm staff housing has further increased property vulnerability.

Beyond theft concerns, illegal street racing has emerged as farmers' top worry in the 2023 Federated Farmers rural crime survey. These activities pose serious risks to livestock and farm infrastructure.

Police recommend installing sensor lighting, maintaining clear sightlines by trimming vegetation, and ensuring all buildings are properly secured. Setting up surveillance systems and coordinating with neighbors can provide additional security during holiday absences.

Community champion wins Young Farmers recognition

New Zealand Young Farmers have announced Danielle Hovmand as the 2024 Contiki Local Legend Award recipient. Representing the Morrinsville-Ngarua Young Farmers Club, Danielle has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to rural communities, the agricultural sector, and the Young Farmers network.

Danielle has spearheaded numerous initiatives, raising tens of thousands of dollars for charities and strengthening connections within the rural community. Her efforts include leading the 2021 Naked Calendar fundraiser, which raised $10,000, and the 2023 Community Quiz Night, which generated $30,000 for local causes. She has also dedicated her time to events like the Morrinsville Fireworks Show, Christmas Parade, and Pink Ribbon Breakfasts, while promoting agricultural education through Ag Days and school visits.

Her advocacy and leadership extend beyond fundraising. Danielle has worked closely with organizations such as the Rural Support Trust, Federated Farmers, and local schools, fostering collaborations that have made a lasting impact. Recently, she coordinated a Christmas Foodbank Fundraiser, directly supporting families in need.

Danielle expressed her gratitude for the award, highlighting the impact Young Farmers has had on her life. She looks forward to using her $5,000 Contiki travel voucher to recharge after years of dedication to her community.

The award reflects Young Farmers' commitment to celebrating members who make a tangible difference in rural New Zealand. NZYF Chief Executive Lynda Coppersmith commended Danielle’s tireless efforts, emphasizing her embodiment of the values the award represents.

And that's the final episode of Early Bird for 2024, we will be back on Monday January 13th, bringing you the best rural news for you every morning at 5am. EWat well, stay safe, enjoy a break with some great summer reading of your Dairy Exporter, Country Wide and New Zealand Life and Leisure magazines. If you don’t have a copy, now is the perfect time to subscribe. You can find links in this episode’s description.

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