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Best
of New Zealand |
| Farming
Life |
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 New
Zealand is a country predominantly built by its farm produce. The country's
livestock, particularly sheep, amount to more than half of the entire
living population. Throughout the North Island regions of Waikato, Taranaki,
and Manawatu, and South Island's Canterbury, Otago, and Southland regions,
dairy farming is very much the main trade for locals.
Farmers work on their
land each day, shearing sheep for their wool, milking cows using high-tech
machines, and maintaining their crops. Crops such as grapes and olives
flourish on many hillsides. Deer, ostriches, goats, and even lavender
are all in commercial production. More than 60 varieties of cheeses are
produced here, including the aorangi, akronia and blue supreme.
According to recent
reports, it was estimated that nearly 25 percent of all farms in New Zealand
have seen a change of land use in the past decade. Dairy farming and forestry
have expanded and is predicted to continue for some time. Kiwi farming
families have encountered several hardships and challenges but most would
not swap their jobs for the world. Still responsible for producing over
half of New Zealand's merchandise exports, with dairy products currently
being the biggest single export earner of any, they've scoured the world
for fresh opportunities. Buyers from Asia and Australia have supported
the country's trade, although traditional sales to Europe may have deteriorated.
Nevertheless, the spirit of innovation and motivation have led to the
branching of various agriculture and horticulture in the country that
would bring even greater lucre for New Zealand.
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