2017 farm machinery sales up
A total of 4079 tractors were sold in 2017, up 13% on 2016
Sales of tractors in 2017 show a marked increase, just topping the previous highest recorded levels of 2014, says NZ Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) general manager, Ron Gall.
The association recognises that farmers in both islands are experiencing hardship with hot and dry conditions.
Ron says challenging drought conditions may affect sales in the coming months but hopes changing weather would provide some relief. A total of 4079 tractors were sold in 2017, up 13% on 2016, up 14% on 2015 and even slightly up on the boom dairy year of 2014, which had 4062 sales.
Sales were particularly strong in the dairy areas of Waikato, Taranaki, Manawatu, Canterbury and Southland. Ron says the increased sales reflected the improved dairy forecast payout along with steady growth in horticulture and viticulture.
According to TAMA’s biennual industry value and employment survey, the total number of people employed in the tractor and farm machinery sales and servicing sector had also increased.
"The machinery/technology sector offers innovative and well-paid jobs with a strong career pathway, including senior roles in sales and business management. TAMA is looking at options to profile the industry as a rewarding career choice for young people," Ron says.
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