A Farmers Union Conference in the 1920s. Photo: Federated Farmers
Federated Farmers is celebrating its 125th birthday Wednesday.
The rural advocacy groups roots go back to 18 September, 1899 when the first properly constituted Farmers' Union branch was formed in Kaitaia by Northland dairy farmer Thomas Portland Smith.
By the late 19th century the agricultural sector was facing increasing headwinds with market fluctuations, land management issues, and the emerging challenge of navigating complex government policies.
Smith quickly recognised the need for a single unified voice to strengthen farmers position to create leverage when engaging with the government.
The NZFU provided a platform for farmers to come together, discuss common issues, and negotiate collectively for better pricing and fair land management rules.
Founding members understood that a strong, organised group could better negotiate with suppliers, government officials, and other stakeholders.
The union quickly gained traction, particularly in the North Island where the organisations first national conference was held in 1902
Thomas Portland Smith (centre) formed the first properly constituted Farmers' Union branch in Kaitaia on September 1899. Photo: Federated Farmers
A similar movement began in Canterbury in 1910 when Henry Acland of Mt Peel Station formed the Sheep Owners' Federation
Like Smith, Acland recognised the need for a unified voice to promote the interests of sheep owners and address issues like fluctuating wool prices, disease outbreaks, and the need for improved farming practices and infrastructure.
In 1925 the Women's Division of the NZ Farmers Union was founded by Florence Polson, wife of Sir William Polsen who was the president of the NZ Farmers Union at the time.
The Women's Division grew to become today's Rural Women New Zealand.
Federated Farmers Womens Division Wellington 1926 Photo: Federated Farmers
After the war in 1945 the two groups merged into one organisation, Federated Farmers.
Current president Wayne Langford said to have advocated for farmers consistently for 125 years is something Federated Farmers is incredibly proud of.
"Since the day we were founded, we've been standing up for farmers and rural communities, giving them a strong voice, and advocating for what's fair.
"We've been there through it all, the booms and busts of farming, significant land use change, market downturns, and the removal of subsidies."
Langford said the organisation has to navigate differences between various sectors and provinces, but that's where the organisation's strength comes from.
"We're an incredibly democratic and diverse grassroots organisation, and there's always plenty of robust debate on the big issues affecting farming.
"That's what really sets us apart from other organisations. We can't just take a position that works for dairy, meat and wool, or arable farmers."
We have to really confront those tough discussions as a collective group and find a pan-sector position that will work for all farmers - not just one sector, Langford said.