Farmers encouraged to obtain permit before moving stock on roads

Farmers intending to move stock on public roads, especially dairy farmers this forthcoming ‘gypsy week’, are encouraged to get in touch with Taupō District Council and obtain a permit; enabling council staff to monitor movements and ensure safe practices are being met.

1 June is the time of year when many sharemilkers move dairy stock between farms for the start of the new financial year, and it can be a hazardous time for both farmers and other road users. Recent dairy conversions in the Taupō district have seen an increase in the number of dairy herds and therefore stock movements on public roads.

Taupō District Council’s stock movement permit system makes sure farmers are aware of what they need to do to keep themselves and their stock safe on the road, and keep the road safe for other motorists. It also gives council staff a picture of all the stock movements in the district.

Operations Manager Denis Lewis says council are trying to find ways of reducing the risk associated with droving stock on the road. “The permit is easy to submit and only takes a minute, and gives farmers the information they need to complete the shift safely.”

Farmers need to contact council at least a week prior to their intended shifting day to ensure staff have adequate time to process the permit. The permit is now available online; simply visit www.taupo.govt.nz and click the ‘Stock Movement Permit’ link under ‘What’s Hot’, or search ‘Stock’ under the A-Z of Services.