Across rural New Zealand, hardworking farming families are facing a growing wave of stand-over tactics embedded in district plans.

These aren’t just technical planning changes. They’re layers of rules, assessments, consultations, and fees that make it harder and more expensive for farmers to use their own land the way they always have.

Need to dig a silage pit, fix a farm track, build a shed, or subdivide for the next generation? You may now face mandatory cultural value assessments, iwi consultation requirements, or other overlays that add delays, uncertainty, and costs. If feedback is negative or the process drags on, consents can be denied or loaded with conditions. Farmers are left asking: who really controls my property?

This is happening in Gore, and similar mechanisms are spreading or already exist in places like Auckland, Waikato, Whanganui, Rotorua, and beyond. 

Routine farm decisions get turned into multi-step gauntlets with extra fees for assessments and reports. Uncertainty kills long-term planning and investment. The burden falls squarely on the people producing our food while so called "partners" charge a racket for sign off.

Farmers aren’t asking for special treatment. They’re asking for fairness.

Hobson’s Pledge stands shoulder-to-shoulder with farmers.

We believe no one should have to navigate stand-over tactics just to keep their business running and feed the country.

That’s why we’re investigating district plans nationwide to expose these creeping restrictions, amplifying the voices of farmers and rural communities who are speaking out, and pushing for real RMA reform that restores democratic control, ends unpredictable layers, and protects genuine property rights.

These tactics won’t stop unless there’s sustained pressure from people who care about rural New Zealand.

Your support today helps turn the tide. No contribution is too small. Together we can send a clear message: New Zealand farmers will not be squeezed out by stand-over tactics.

Internet Banking
Bank Account No. 03-0631-0011785-00
When paying by Internet Banking please record:
Particulars: Your first name
Code: your email address
Reference: remains of email address if it didn’t fit on line above