Consideration on Gypsy Day Please
It’s that time of year again – gypsy day. The first of June is gypsy day for the dairy industry, when sharemilkers move
their families, belongings and herd from their old farm to their new one.
“Motorists need to be aware of sharemilkers and their herds when driving on country roads” says Joy Thomas, Chair of
Federated Farmers of New Zealand’s Sharemilkers Section.
"Sharemilkers are bound by their contract to be at one farm on 31 May and at another farm on 1 June so they have no
choice but to be on our roads at this time.
"As a consequence motorists can expect minor hold-ups in some rural areas and should plan their trip accordingly.
“Sharemilkers also need to consider motorists in their planning for the day.
Mrs Thomas reminded sharemilkers that they need to plan ahead to ensure services were set up at their new farm and that
legal and bank documents were in place.
“Sharemilkers need to ensure that they have tided up all loose ends with their current farm owners and that they have
sought advice on any outstanding questions of interpretation in their current agreements or in starting off new ones.
Federated Farmers financial members seeking advice in this area should contact the Federation’s Employment team on 0800
FARMING (0800 327 646).”