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Eastern Southland Murihiku
Approach
Southland has 3,400 farms and 70% of our GDP is export focused with the majority of this is linked to the primary sector.
Farmland occupies 85% of the non-conservation land in Southland Murihiku and between 2016 and 2019 the amount of farm area in Southland Murihiku decreased from 1,176,256 to 1,054,670 hectares. It is important to understand the change in size and number of farms in order to understand the pressures that agricultural activities can place on soil health and water quality. Working with key partners we will seek to gain insights of the agricultural sector in the region.
Early discussions with key stakeholders have identified the sector is going through a significant period of change. We want to make sure the voice of our communities are heard and the implications of change are quantified and understood. This will allow it to be included in wider regional development and spatial planning as well as ensuring change aligns to our values as a people and place.
Key Outcomes
Identify and assess key issues currently being faced and possible implications for our region, including labour market shortages, carbon forestry, Emissions Trading Scheme, rising operational costs and compliance and land use.
Clarity of the roles and responsibilities of key players in the agricultural sector.
Ensure data is provided to ensure evidence-based decision making.
Connection with other Workstreams:
The principles of this workstream will strongly underpin the overall Beyond 2025 Southland plan with close alignment to the following workstreams:
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Future Crops and Food Opportunities
To develop the Southland Murihiku future crops and food opportunity pathway
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Land
To prepare for and understand the implications of climate change on land in Southland Murihiku.
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Net Zero Southland
To support and enable Southland Murihiku to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
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Water
To prepare for and understand how to future proof water and water assets to ensure the region can prosper.
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Skilled Workforce Development
To ensure a joined-up approach to labour market planning which will see our workforce, education and immigration systems working together to better meet the differing workforce and skills needs in Southland Murihiku.
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Transport
To ensure the region’s transport system (road, rail, air and sea) enables and supports regional growth and wellbeing, while understanding and planning for new opportunities and challenges.
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