Mycoplasma bovis has been at the forefront for all farmers and New Zealanders over recent times, with New Zealand to be the first country to attempt eradication.

Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) was involved in much of the discussion leading to the decision, our role was ensuring a voice for farming families and communities.

It was crucial that the immediate and long term effects of the decision were taken into account, with strong pastoral support from industry leaders and government, who are working together to ensure this support is accessible across the country. New Zealand has decided to cull up to 150,000 cows in a bid to eradicate the disease.

Mycoplasma bovis is a bacteria that causes cows to develop mastitis, pneumonia, arthritis and other diseases.

The eradication plan will cost the government the equivalent of about €690m.

Our work has begun to ensure that wrap-around support for farmers and communities is available. We need to help prevent stress which can lead to negative effects such as compromised mental health, domestic violence, and suicide.

From June onwards it tends to be quieter on New Zealand farms because it is winter and most dairy herds other than winter milk autumn calving farms have dried off. The kiwi fruit has been picked and it is between seasons for the sheep farmers.

Many of the in-lamb ewe flocks are being scanned getting ready for lambing, with those on the flat country already starting lambing. While on other farms in the hill and high country, lambs are not due to begin until September-October.

Last month, New Zealand held the largest agricultural event in the southern hemisphere – the National FielDays, which extends over four days in the heart of the Waikato region. Over 120,000 visitors poured into the site, positively contributing to the farming sector and wider New Zealand economy.

This year was the 50th anniversary, proving how far the event has come since 1968 displaying everything from lifestyle items through to the latest in machinery, technology and innovation.

We launched the NZI Rural Women New Zealand Business Awards which showcase women who live and work rurally and run their own enterprise.

It is very rewarding to celebrate these women’s owned and operated rural businesses, and support their growth and contribution to the rural economy and communities.

It was a privilege to welcome visitors to our stand including the RWNZ patron governor General Dame Patsy Reddy, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the leader of the opposition Simon Bridges.

RWNZ continues to support rural families and communities, the way we have done so for nearly 100 years.

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