Young farmers eye sheep and beef farms

Nine to NoonRNZ·11 Aug, 2026 06:30 AM4 mins to readA Rabobank report showed the average age of farmers in the sheep and beef sector was about 50, but with a significant number reaching retirement age. Photo / RNZ, Cosmo Kentish-BarnesA Rabobank report showed the average age of farmers in the sheep and beef sector was about 50, but with a significant number reaching retirement age. Photo / RNZ, Cosmo Kentish-BarnesBy RNZ Nine to NoonMany farmers are nearing pension age and contemplating what to do with the family farm, especially if it is in sheep or beef.

But there appears to be a positive turn to the issue of succession with renewed interest in beef

Young farmers eye sheep and beef farms

Other newsrooms on this story

Related reading

Farms in the sight of buyers as thousands of farmers approach retirement

Working the land but rarely owning it: life for New Zealand’s young farmers

Letting go: The challenge of leaving the family farm

'Breathing room': Sheep and beef sector bounces back after lean years

Half of farmers are over retirement age. Is our food system at risk?

Farmers feeling positive despite cost concerns: Rabobank