Every year, B+LNZ's Farmer Councils work alongside regional extension teams to identify the opportunities, challenges and priorities that matter most to local farmers. Those priorities shape the events, programmes and learning opportunities delivered in each region throughout the year.
The resulting Regional Delivery Plans (RDPs) provide a clear picture of how farmer levy investment is being directed into practical extension activities, helping farmers build profitable, productive and resilient farming businesses.
From Focus Groups and Farming for Profit events to workshops, field days and networking opportunities, the plans outline what's happening in your region and the outcomes local Farmer Councils are working towards for their farming communities.
Built by local farmers, for local farmers
Each RDP is developed by B+LNZ's Farmer Councils alongside their regional extension teams.
The process starts with Farmer Council members speaking directly with local farmers to understand what's top of mind in their region. Each council member is asked to interview at least three farmers, using a common discussion guide to gather feedback on challenges, opportunities and priorities.
This feedback is brought together alongside insights from regular engagement with farmers, regional team input, results from the latest Farmer Confidence Survey, and updates from across B+LNZ on key programmes, projects and areas of work.
Farmer Councils then work with regional extension teams to identify where extension activities can have the greatest impact, helping ensure programmes and events are relevant to local needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
The plans ultimately guide how regional resources, effort and levy investment are prioritised throughout the year.
What's included?
Each Regional Delivery Plan outlines:
- The key opportunities and challenges identified within the region.
- Priority focus areas for extension activities.
- Planned focus groups, workshops and events.
- Innovation and technology initiatives.
- Community and networking opportunities.
- Regional leadership and capability development activities.
Jim Inglis, B+LNZ General Manager - Farming Systems and Adoption, says, “Every region has different priorities, which is why these plans are shaped by local farmers. While the activities may vary, the goal is the same: creating practical opportunities for farmers to learn, connect and take home ideas they can apply in their own businesses.”
Find your region's plan
Whether you're interested in improving farm profitability, exploring new technologies, strengthening your farm system or building leadership capability, your Regional Delivery Plan provides a roadmap to the opportunities available in your area over the coming year.