Rebuilding Fences & Restoring Hope at RRT’s Farmers Community Connect Event
On Thursday 28 August 2025, 148 farmers from across the Tasman region came together at the RRT Farmers Community Connect event in Tapawera, held at 160 Tadmor Valley Road. This event provided support for farmers affected by recent weather events, which caused extensive fencing damage and impacted farms’ working capacity.
In total, farmers took home 15,448 fencing posts and 34 tonnes of wire, as well as fencing accessories such as staples and permanent strainers. After having their vehicles loaded, they were welcomed into the marquee to enjoy a meal, a hot drink, and time to catch up with fellow farmers and support services. The atmosphere was warm and buzzing, with conversations flowing as people shared experiences and reconnected with their community.
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"The efficiency with which everything was handled was exemplary. It could not be faulted. Everyone was easy to talk with, friendly and helpful. Everyone involved went above and beyond."
Bruce and Alison Baker, Farmers
Over the course of the day, the RRT team served 420 meals and 400 hot drinks. Support services attending included MPI, Rural Support Trust, Vetlife Nelson, Farmlands, PGG Wrightson, Tasman Bay Guardians, Beef & Lamb NZ, Nelson Bays Primary Health, and FirstMate. The marquee was also filled with light-hearted moments thanks to the RRT Cookie Mascots and Lego sets that brought smiles to families. Before heading home, every farmer received an RRT Food Box to take with them.
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"While the fencing gear (and having it enthusiastically loaded) was deeply appreciated, the other thoughtful surprises, excellent food, outstanding coffee and absolute kindness of all involved made it an all round great day. The chatter and hum as people took time to catch up with each other, was more needed than I suspect many of us realised."
Sharon Rogers, Farmer
The Farmers Community Connect event in Tapawera was about more than just fencing materials — it was about restoring hope, offering practical help, and reminding farmers that they are supported by their community. A special thank you to the farmers who came along and made the day what it was, and to the support services who gave their time to be there.
