Farm machinery sales drop to 2014 levels
Kiwi farmers are buying more tractors than ever before and Taranaki is leading the charge, a farm machinery organisation says.
Sales of tractors in increased markedly last year, topping the previous highest recorded levels of
2014, New Zealand Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) general manager, Ron Gall.
In 2017, 4079 tractors were sold, up 13 per cent on 2016, up 14 per cent on 2015 and even slightly up on the boom dairy year of 2014, which had 4062 sales, Gall said.
Sales were particularly strong in the dairy areas of Waikato, Taranaki, Manawatu, Canterbury and Southland and in the horticulture, viticulture and arable areas of Northland, Hawkes Bay, Nelson and Marlborough.
The biggest increase on last year’s sales was Taranaki with 214 sales in 2017 compared to 158 in
2016, a 35 per cent boost. Otago, home to dairy and horticulture and viticulture, also experienced impressive growth, with a 28 per cent increase on 2016.
Combined, the areas of North, Mid and South Canterbury had a
22 per cent increase on 2016. Gall said the increased sales reflected the improved dairy forecast payout along with steady growth in horticulture and viticulture.
Although drought conditions affecting parts of the country could affect sales in the coming months, it was hoped changing weather would provide some relief for struggling farmers, Gall said.
According to TAMA’s biennial industry value and employment survey, the total number of people employed in the tractor and farm machinery sales and servicing sector had also increased.
There has been a 14 per cent increase since 2015 - from 2492 to 2846 roles. Nearly 40 per cent of those employed earned salaries of more than $75,000.
Of respondents to the survey, 57 per cent said they had difficulties hiring staff and 19 per cent had hired migrants.
‘‘The machinery/technology sector offers innovative and wellpaid jobs with a strong career pathway, including senior roles in sales and business management,’’ Gall said.
‘‘TAMA is looking at options to profile the industry as a rewarding career choice for young people.’’