There is still the opportunity to participate in the 2022 Agricultural Production Census. Hawkes Bay growers are encouraged to play their part and support their industry by completing the questionnaire.
Available online and as a printed version by request, the nationwide census of agriculture is run by Stats NZ every five years on behalf of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). With the tradition of collecting information on livestock and crops dating back to the 1860s, generations of New Zealanders on the land have provided essential information on their enterprise’s production, land use and practices.
As each operation is different, participation by every agricultural business matters. Data from fields, farms, orchards and forests is collected to form the most trusted source of New Zealand’s agricultural statistics – showing the importance of agriculture to the nation’s economy, exports and growth, as well as any changes or trends. The combined data from the 2022 Agricultural Production Census will be used to shape the future of agriculture, so discussions and decisions are based on hard evidence from the field.
Having up-to-date and accurate facts and figures on the agricultural sector is vital for providing improved policies, programmes and support to rural New Zealand. The agricultural statistics are used by industry bodies, producer groups, central and local government, business and service providers, and rural communities for planning, forecasting, and better meeting needs. Results from the 2022 Agricultural Production Census influence everything from investment decisions and trade negotiations to natural disaster planning and new rural services.
Information packs on the Agricultural Production Census 2022 were mailed out last month, with help available to complete the questionnaire at www.stats.govt.nz/agsurvey, along with dedicated email and a freephone number. All Hawkes Bay growers are encouraged to ensure they are represented, to play their part in the growth of the industry.
