FarmsOnLine

There is a strong need for the government and emergency response agencies to have access to accurate information on rural properties in New Zealand.

For one, agencies such as MAF Biosecurity New Zealand need this information to be able to respond rapidly to identify affected properties and trace stock in biosecurity or other emergencies. This protects stock, crops, farmers’ livelihoods and the New Zealand economy.

In addition, access to readily-available, reliable property information will:

  • Give New Zealand’s trading partners increased confidence in the country’s ability to respond to disease outbreaks. This reduces the likelihood or scope of trade restrictions that could cost New Zealand millions of dollars a day.
  • Help government agencies to develop targeted and effective rural policies and programmes and to plan and undertake their work more effectively and efficiently.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) has explored a range of options for collecting and maintaining easily-accessible, high-quality and up-to-date rural property information. It has concluded that a new shared Crown resource, FarmsOnLine, will be the most cost effective, reliable and efficient option.

Please note that additional information can be found on FarmsOnLine (offsite link to www.maf.govt.nz) area of the MAF website.

Page last updated: 12 November 2009