Growing Kai Under Increasing Dry

Recommendation report for the primary sector

This report details how climate change and drought will increasingly impact primary production over the coming decades. While adaptation won’t be easy, the benefits are unquestionable and will ensure economic viability of primary production is protected, as well as farmers’ mental health, and the environment.

Adaptation has already begun but it is incremental and won’t be enough to cushion future impact. Farmers are best placed to make these small changes to how they use land, but longer term planning is currently lacking. These include improving drought modelling and identifying new land use opportunities, work that must be led by regional councils, scientists, central government and industry bodies.

The key message is that all stakeholders in the primary sector have a role to play in planning for future drought conditions. The report provides recommendations and guidance to each of the stakeholders in the sector.