Matching New Zealand Rural Development Policy to a Changing Clientele

In responding to the needs of a broader rural clientele, MAF's rural economic development work has moved beyond a single sector approach to one which recognises all rural economic activity. New Zealand's approach to rural economic development lags behind those of most OECD countries. An official rural development policy, sponsored by MAF, is needed to ensure that there is adequate co-ordination with other agencies' activities, and that government works in partnership with rural people to ensure their goals are realised.