Council win saves time and money

Federated Farmers Manawatu-Rangitkei is thrilled by the recent wins in the Horowhenua District Plan.

“We have had two significant wins from the Horowhenua Council hearings, which means we will not need to appeal in the Environment Court,” says Andrew Hoggard, Federated Farmers Manawatu Rangitkei provincial president.

“It is a testament to the great working relationship we have with the council, and the great work of our Policy Advisor, that we were able to get some practical and workable decisions made around ‘Housing’ and ‘Hazardous Substances’.

“Federated Farmers worked with its members to achieve better outcomes so now bigger farms can provide more housing for workers and family to live on farm, and farmers will not need to know the chemical compounds of the agrichemicals or fuel that they use.

“It goes to show how the district plan process can, at the front end, avoid costly appeal processes when there is clear, open and honest consultation. We are really pleased with the approach the council has taken here.

“I would just like to acknowledge the influence our members, who were really engaged throughout the process, had by giving practical insights on farming to the hearing panel. Your input was invaluable,” concluded Mr Hoggard.

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