Programmes training rural people to manage pressure and adapt to change will received renewed funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

Piloted across 2020 and 2021, the two programmes run by the Agri-Women’s Development Trust (AWDT) have now been allocated a further $339,000 to continue, and expand their reach. 

‘Know Your Mindset. Do What Matters’ and ‘Our Resilient Farming Business’ have been attended by more than 300 rural women and men and include training on how to better manage stress, prioritise wellbeing, and cultivate financial resilience in the face of change.  

MPI’s acting director of rural communities and farming support Andrew Spelman says disruptions and supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are one of the many challenges facing farmers, growers and Māori land owners. 

“This training has helped boost people’s ability and confidence to cope, along with strengthening the resilience of their businesses to get through hard times.” 

The two programmes are designed specifically for people living and working in rural communities. 

The funding boost will enable them to be run again over the next year, starting in June. 

AWDT general manager Lisa Sims says skills learns on the programmes improved their wellbeing and connection to others, supported business decisions and communication, and drove positive changes in their lives and businesses. 

“MPI’s support will enable our team to work directly with more than 700 people, and our experience has shown that the ripple effect of the new skills and confidence they gain extends far more widely into rural families, businesses and communities.” 

The ‘Know Your Mindset. Do What Matters’ programme focuses on managing multiple pressures, prioritising wellbeing, and building realistic action plans.  

The ‘Our Resilient Farming Business’ programme focuses on building personal and financial resilience. 

“The support provided by MPI is part of the Government and sector's Fit for a Better World roadmap. The success of New Zealand’s primary sector hinges on having strong, thriving and sustainable rural communities,” says Spelman.  

More information and details about how to register are available on the AWDT website.