Farmers across Invercargill and Southland are delivering the goods for our province, with New Zealand export revenue set to reach record levels.
In the year to 30 June 2026 export revenue is forecast to reach $64.3 billion - up six percent - and driven by healthy demand for dairy and red meat.
Further to that the Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report shows exports are expected to lift even further to $70 billion by 2030.
This isn’t just good news for farmers; it’s really positive for the whole of Southland.
When our exporters do well, we all do well, with more jobs, stronger businesses, higher wages, and money flowing into our communities.
Rural and urban economies in the South are deeply intertwined, with local towns also reliant on farm spending, machinery sales, and agricultural supply services.
Agriculture employs almost 12,000 people in Southland, or 23 percent of the local workforce, and generates around $890 million a year in export revenue.
We also punch well above our weight, generating between 12 and 17 percent of New Zealand's total pastoral and sheep exports, despite us having only 2 percent of New Zealand's population.
That’s why Southland is described as an "export powerhouse," and that’s why the National-led Government continues to ensure this province and its farmers flourish.
This includes partnering with industry to help meet rising global demand by driving a step change in food and fibre production through greater land use flexibility.
We’ll also continue to back the sector by increasing trade opportunities, reducing trade barriers, cutting red tape and reducing regulation.
We are focused on fixing the basics and building the future through sensible reforms across freshwater, resource management and agricultural emissions.
The Government is laser-focused on delivering more returns to Southland food and fibre producers and rural communities, growing the economy, and delivering prosperity.
By Invercargill MP, Penny Simmonds. Funded by Parliamentary Services, published by arrangement.