ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker said now the winter season had arrived, farming duties were a little lighter, and it was a good time for farmers to pause and reflect on their processes, reflect on injury prevention, and look after themselves and their team.
‘‘We know that farming is an all-consuming role and that is easier said than done during the busy seasons, but the most valuable asset on the farm is the people, and we need to make sure our farmers are going home safe and healthy every day.’’
In 2025, ACC accepted 17,057 work-related agricultural claims at a cost of $119 million to help people recover.
The leading regions for work-related agricultural claims in 2025 were Waikato (2715 claims), Canterbury (2490), Hawke’s Bay (1518) and Southland (1507).
Otago farmers were close behind with 1452 injury claims.
It cost $21.2m to help Otago and Southland farmers recover from their injuries.
‘‘We know that when a person sustains an injury, it has a flow-on effect to their family, their friends and their workmates, so it is always better to prevent the injury happening in the first place,’’ Mr Whitaker said.
‘‘Our research shows that most injuries are predictable, and therefore preventable, and the farming environment is no different.’’
‘‘New Zealand farmers are some of the best in the world at what they do’’, Mr Whitaker said.
‘‘They spend their lives growing our food and milk, and helping our economy.
‘‘But they're not so great at looking after themselves.
‘‘Farmers can get better at putting in systems to look after the most important asset on the farm — themselves and those who work in the business.’’
An ACC-funded study for Farmstrong shows 58% of recently injured farmers linked their accident to stress associated with farm work.
A-quarter of them said it was a major factor.
Exhaustion, lack of sleep, the stresses of farming, being isolated from friends and family, and being unable to take a break, all added to the risks that a farmer or farm worker will suffer an injury.
ACC partners with Farmstrong, a nationwide five-part wellbeing programme for the rural community, to help prevent injuries in the sector.
The first part recommends farmers develop new friendships and spend time with mates, because it makes a big difference to how you feel about yourself.
It also recommends giving your time, your words, and your presence to others.
It not only benefits them, it makes you feel a lot happier too.
Another part involves taking a few moments to pause and think about what you really appreciate.
Farmers are also encouraged to keep learning, no matter what their age, because it is good for your brain and keeps your thinking flexible and open.
And lastly, don’t be afraid to work up a sweat — it releases endorphins that make you feel alert and better able to cope with challenges.
Mr Whitaker encouraged all farmers to take the time to engage and think about how they could apply some of the principles to their operations.
