For immediate release
Resolution for Farmers – Involve Wives!
Farmers should include their wives or partners more in decision making, according to Waikato farm finance consultant
Donald Fraser.
The most successful and harmonious farms are where both partners are involved in the business and share the task of
making decisions, he says.
“Traditionally men looked after the farm and the women took care of the household and looked after children as well
doing as routine farm chores. Bankers and accountants spoke only to the men, and only men went to discussion groups”.
“However, there has been a dramatic change in recent times. Many women have become closely involved in goal setting and
management decisions, and bank managers now make sure that both partners are consulted on financial matters. Women are
even forming their own discussion groups,” says Fraser.
Many farmers would do well to make a New Year’s resolution to involve their wives more, he says.
“It is not about giving up control over the business, but rather about sharing the burdens and reaping the benefits of
better focus and greater harmony at home”.
Donald Fraser is the managing director of Fraser Farm Finance, phone 025-951-170