Manawatū offers a rare opportunity, both nationally and globally, to diversify its land and build more resilient farm systems, with the potential to strengthen the region's food production and boost economic returns for our farmers and landowners.
Led by the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA), the Land Diversification project aims to empower Manawatū farmers to tackle economic challenges, future proof their farm systems and improve productivity through alterative cropping and rotations.
This Land Diversification initiative features a report and an interactive Crop Suitability Map, offering farmers innovative land use options to consider as part of their planning processes. These tools can be used to inform practical alternatives for diversifying farm operations, mitigating income risk, and fostering sustainable farming practices.
NB: These stats cover the year 2023 and are approximate.
The information displayed in this map is sourced from the Data Supermarket via Our Land and Water, and through Toitū Te Whenua - Land Information New Zealand databases and maps. It is made available in good faith; however, its accuracy or completeness is not guaranteed. The main purpose of this Crop Suitability Map tool, provided by CEDA, is to provide a high-level overview of potential opportunities for growers, and landowners. Please note that actual land information may differ from what is shown and should be confirmed through further due diligence. The information is simplified in this map tool and therefore should serve only as a guide.
Please note: For the best experience this map tool is best viewed on a desktop computer. Users may experience slower online speeds when using the map tool due to its size and data requirements.
The following documents promote options that do not require a complete overhaul of existing farm systems but can enhance productivity. These five crops were selected due to the availability of data and research. For example, integrating crop rotations with livestock grazing to stimulate soil nutrients and provide high-value crops during non-grazing periods.
To use the map tool, you can search by address or valuation number. The map will zoom in on your address, you will then be required to click the map within your property boundaries. As a result more detailed information will appear on the left-hand side. This includes multiple layers that can be toggled on or off for your convenience. As you select different crops via the tabs at the bottom of the screen, your address will remain selected.