$40.5 M Funding Boost Strengthens Support for Rural Catchment Groups

Butterick said groups currently funded through MPI’s Catchment Services Extension Programme will continue receiving support.

The Government is increasing its support for rural catchment groups across New Zealand, announcing a $40.5 million investment over the next four years to help farmers continue improving land management and environmental outcomes.

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Agriculture Minister Mike Butterick said rural catchment groups have delivered practical results for communities by helping farmers improve water quality, share knowledge and respond to changing environmental conditions. The funding, delivered through the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), is designed to strengthen existing programmes while expanding the reach of catchment initiatives across the country.

Regional collectives to improve coordination and coverage

New Zealand currently has 51 rural catchment groups and collectives receiving support. Alongside these groups, the Government will fund 17 regional catchment collectives this year, creating stronger links between local organisations and improving coordination across wider geographic areas. According to McClay, the regional model will help ensure knowledge, resources and successful practices are shared more effectively among farming communities. A total of $13.5 million has been allocated for the 2026/27 financial year to support catchment groups, including organisations that previously received assistance through the Ministry for the Environment, as well as initiatives supported by the NZ Landcare Trust.

The announcement comes as the Government continues work on reducing compliance requirements for farmers and reshaping resource management policies. McClay said these changes are influencing the role of Government-funded catchment groups, with a greater focus on practical environmental improvements and farmer-led solutions.

Long-term support planned for farmer-led environmental projects

The Government has also instructed MPI to work with the sector on developing a longer-term plan for rural catchment groups. The proposal will examine future funding arrangements and provide greater certainty for organisations such as the NZ Landcare Trust. McClay said farmers play an important role in responsible land management while producing the food and fibre products that support New Zealand's economy and export sector.

Butterick said groups currently funded through MPI's Catchment Services Extension Programme will continue receiving support. He described rural catchment groups as one of the country's environmental success stories, delivering measurable improvements at the local level through collaboration and community involvement. He added that farmers have a strong connection to the land they work on, with participation in catchment groups reflecting their commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable farming practices.