Survey of rural decision makers

The Survey of Rural Decision Makers is a resource to help policy makers, regional councils, industry groups, and businesses to explore questions related to:

Ownership and structure
Land use, land-use change
Farm plans and land management
Forestry practice

Novel technologies
Climate
Conservation
Irrigation

Labour
Demographics, education
Future planning and expectations
Values

It is designed to build a better picture of decision-making at farm level. Economic, social and environmental data is integrated to provide research and advice that will shape land and water policies. The survey tackles many topics that cannot be easily addressed in official statistics or directly by organisations.

The survey is extensive but its delivery ensures that only the questions relevant to a responding farmer are asked, and all information provided is anonymous. Farmers are invited by e-mail to take part, and if they complete the survey, they can select a charity to receive a donation to thank them for their time.

The Survey of Rural Decision Makers runs every two years: 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019.

Summary results from the survey are shared on this website in ways that provide regional or industry sector snapshots of the information. The real value of the survey lies in the opportunities for deeper analysis using advanced statistical or econometric approaches.

“Everyone can see that Landcare Research has done this survey and it has more credibility than if we had done it ourselves. Our stakeholders trust that the information is not skewed” (Taranaki RC)