Agricultural vehicle transport review welcomed

Rural Contractors NZ

Tuesday 20th September 2011

The announcement of a review of transport rules affecting agricultural contractors is great news for Rural Contractors New Zealand. The announcement by Associate Transport Minister Nathan Guy has been eagerly awaited by the industry which has had a number of issues that cause members great difficulty.

“A review is most timely and will allow us to look at all the issues, not just try and fix a few,” Executive Director Roger Parton said. “Too often, one problem is resolved but it creates another somewhere else. This approach will ensure that we get it all right and should provide for future developments in agricultural vehicles”.

Parton said that the agricultural sector has not really changed in its vehicle usage over the years other than for the size and variety of machinery. However, changes in legalisation have meant that what was once OK is now in breach of the law. This needs to be fixed he said as it has resulted in many contractors having to break some laws almost every day they do their work.

“Rural Contractors are a vital part of the economy, employing some 25,000 people and generating $3.5 billion a year,” Parton said. “Agriculture is the biggest industry in the economy and must succeed for the benefit of us all.”

It is hoped that the review will provide transport rules that can be complied with while allowing contractors to get on and do their work. This will encourage compliance, respect for the law and contribute towards the safety of all road users.

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