Representing Wairarapa farmers
The Wairarapa Province of Federated Farmers incorporates Masterton, Carterton and South Wairarapa districts, as well as Kapiti Coast and Wellington areas. Agriculture is the major source of income and employment in the Wairarapa, despite the growth of tourism, wine-making, manufacturing and the services industry. Sheep stations along the eastern hill country, which used to primarily produce wool, have given up large areas to forestry.
Wairarapa sheep and beef cattle farmers on lower lying land have adopted more intensive farming systems to stay economically viable. Dairy farms, found mostly in southern Wairarapa, are adopting new technology and increasing herd sizes. Areas with poorer pasture and gravelly soil along the central river system are now being used for grapes.
Wairarapa is often targeted as a showcase for international visitors being the closest farming district to New Zealand's capital and government hub, Wellington.
Federated Farmers works constructively with local councils and the Greater Wellington Regional Council, on issues across water and the environment.
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