Smallholdings in New Zealand

Abstract

Reports on 'A Study of Smallholdings and their Owners', prepared jointly by AgriQuality New Zealand, Lincoln University and MAF, which outlines the findings of a study undertaken in 2003/04. MAF commissioned the study in order to enhance our understanding of smallholdings (defined within the study as properties between 0.4 ha and 30 ha in area); their numbers, total areas involved, their land use and agricultural production, and levels of biosecurity awareness among those who operate them. The study was the first of its kind in addressing smallholdings nationwide, contradicting some common perceptions of smallholders, while reinforcing others. It yielded many useful insights into New Zealand smallholdings and provided a first step to future work.