Rural Protection

Keeping your farm running strong, no matter what life throws your way.

What is Rural Protection?

Rural Protection Insurance is designed specifically for farmers. It’s a monthly payment that helps keep your farming operation running if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.

With over 40% of New Zealand’s land dedicated to farming, agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. But beyond the national picture, your farm is your livelihood, demanding constant effort, care, and responsibility.

Rural Protection Insurance helps safeguard that investment. It ensures your farm can continue to operate by providing financial support to bring in help when you need it most. Whether it’s temporary labour, management assistance, or covering day-to-day costs, this cover helps protect the future of your farm, for yourself and the next generation.

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How does rural protection differ from income protection?

While Income Protection is designed to replace lost personal earnings, Rural Protection Insurance goes a step further offering tailored support to keep your farm running smoothly.

It’s designed with the unique demands of farming in mind, allowing you to bring in a farm hand or temporary manager if you’re unable to work. Some policies also extend to cover lifestyle blocks and essential farm assets, including breakdowns of plant and machinery.

In short, it’s about more than just replacing income, it’s about maintaining the day to day operations of your farm when you’re not able to.

Do I need to own the farm to qualify?

It's best to speak with your adviser, but in most cases, Rural Protection Insurance is available if you own or part-own a farm or sharemilking business, or if you lease the farm or herd.

This type of cover is specifically designed to support the unique needs of farmers, sharemilkers, and partners who are actively involved in running the farm. It helps ensure the continuity of the business, no matter the ownership structure.

How is cover agreed?

Recognising that farm income can be seasonal and unpredictable, most insurers keep the application process simple requiring minimal paperwork and limited proof of income.

In most cases, cover is based on a straightforward agreed value, which you help determine based on your farm’s needs. Your adviser will guide you through the process to make sure the cover is set up appropriately and works for your situation.