30+ basics every block owner needs to know

With the number of lifestyle block owners rising each year, many of them new to farming, it’s important to know where to find reputable advice and help.

There has been a significant rise in the number of people moving onto lifestyle blocks in the last couple of years. It includes people coming back from overseas and city dwellers wanting more room and the benefits of rural life.

It means there are a lot of people new to owning livestock, and it can be challenging to understand their needs and care for them effectively.

Ensuring they remain healthy costs money and time, and people need to plan accordingly, says Penny Timmer-Arends, senior animal welfare advisor for the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

“Some may have some experience but lack the equipment or the time to consistently provide all the types of care required. Even if it’s only a few sheep, cattle, or alpacas, you really should have a stock health and care management plan. Shearing, drenching, and any treatments if an animal becomes ill – it all needs to be thought of in advance.”